These words of wisdom are the answer to anyone attempting to carry out a business endeavor, but it is easier said then done. You may have studied marketing strategies, devised a well-written game plan and outlined all your objectives, but actually putting it all in motion can be a daunting and somewhat scary process.

              

You aren’t alone in this seemingly unfamiliar endeavor—anyone who is beginning their own marketing program experiences some twinges of anticipation, doubt or worry. Concerned with expenses and achieving a high return on investment (ROI)? Wondering how long you need to advertise before the results start to show?  Unsure if you’ll be able to attract the right kind of patients that will help your practice grow? These valid questions are important to have in the forefront of your thoughts—you wouldn’t be a savvy business owner without them. Unfortunately, your queries can’t be immediately answered no matter how well you plan or research your marketing strategies.

 

 

The only way to overcome initial apprehension and to start getting the solutions you’ve been looking for is to simply begin. But you don’t have to do it alone. Consult a respected colleague in another field, question those you meet at marketing seminars, or hone in on the tips you’ve learned from this article series to help you along. Sometimes the best way to become emboldened is to be inspired by key pieces of advice.     

 

For instance, some experts believe that the best type of media outlet to begin with is television. Although your initial budget may inhibit you, aim to get onto TV as soon as you can. This medium will give you the quickest, most gratifying response, and may not be as costly as you think. Overcome apprehension of television advertising by doing the research and breaking down the numbers. Here’s a tip: some TV stations are willing to cut a commercial for no or little cost, depending on the level of your commitment to advertise with them. This lone factor can make it a win/win situation for both parties.

 

Keep in mind that a simple commercial doesn’t have to be incredibly creative to get you started. As your budget increases over time, you will earn the revenues needed to cut a more high-end, stylish commercial. Placing your ads on the right stations and at the right times is very important to your marketing success. Advertising on the major local channels between the hours of 5:30 and 9 a.m. are best. Local morning news programs reach a wide audience because everyone tunes in for weather and traffic reports in order to start their day. The costs for these time slots can be very reasonable.

 

 

Remembering important points from past how-to-market articles will help guide the direction of your efforts. Consider these other important tips:

 

 

 

Once your marketing plan is underway and you have taken the first critical steps, you will begin to get that all-important bottom-line result—a prospective patient walking through your office door. So what happens when the patient enters into the arena of the cosmetic consultation? Developing a loyal and productive relationship with the patient will be the focus of the September installment of this series.

 

Until then, good luck!