The Biggest Mistakes Doctor’s Make on Social Media and How to Avoid Them

Social media is a great and powerful tool that, when used correctly, can have a wonderful impact on a society, a business, a career, etc. However, with the good, often comes the bad. And though Facebook, Twitter and Instagram can offer various ways to educate patients and engage with them, there are certain aspects that should be avoided when utilizing digital platforms. Take a look:

Don’t Over-promote Yourself

It’s important to remember to promote conversation—not your business or craft. While it’s perfectly fine to endorse your abilities here and there, the main focus of your social media platform should be to provide interesting and beneficial information that will eventually create a dialogue or some sort of feedback with current or potential patients. After all, you don’t want to force yourself onto potential patients, but instead form a relationship with them through trust and understanding.  

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Be Reasonable AND Patient

As you start down your social media path, it’s important to not only be patient, but to also have reasonable expectations and goals. For example, it will take time and energy to build an effective relationship with people. Therefore, don’t expect your business to substantially grow overnight just because of your Facebook, Twitter and Instagram efforts. Not only are you trying to earn people’s trust, but you are doing so via online—be patient.

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Always Be Professional

Yes, most people have personal Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. You have to remember that you’re utilizing Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for professional purposes, not personal ones. Therefore, to avoid potential legal situations, you must be able to distinguish between the two. Before you post, be aware of patient confidentially and make sure your ethics are in-check.

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