Drop the quirk? - Understanding your customer for focused marketing strategies.

By
Jamie Bridle / Founder
Drop the quirk? - Understanding your customer for focused marketing strategies.

In a world overflowing with information, effective marketing strategies can make all the difference. When it comes to healthcare marketing, the stakes are particularly high. For both healthcare consumers and professionals, trust and credibility are paramount. It's essential to remember that the messaging strategy must cater to the specific needs and preferences of the target audience.

The primary focus of healthcare marketing is, of course, the healthcare consumer. Understanding their preferences is vital. A recent industry survey revealed that 78% of healthcare consumers prefer a straightforward and professional approach in healthcare marketing materials. This statistic indicates a significant shift in consumer sentiment, suggesting that the days of quirky healthcare marketing may be waning.

At the very least, going out of your way to be quirky before understanding who your ideal client(s) are probably isn't going to do your brand any favours. Building trust and credibility is central in healthcare marketing, so if anything you are doing stresses this bedrock, you might be muddying the path that your brand and marketing is taking.

Trust isn't just a commodity; it's the foundation upon which every patient-provider relationship is built. Trust is what prompts individuals to seek care, confide in their healthcare providers, and follow medical recommendations. Hence, a strong focus on trust and credibility in healthcare marketing is well-justified.

Messaging plays a pivotal role in building trust. When healthcare consumers encounter quirky or overly light-hearted marketing materials, they might perceive the healthcare provider as less serious or less trustworthy. However, professional and straightforward messaging can instill a sense of confidence, making the healthcare provider more reliable in the eyes of the consumer.

However, It's essential to recognise that healthcare consumers are a diverse group with varying needs and preferences. While the statistics indicate a preference for straightforward messaging, it's equally important to segment your audience and tailor your messaging to different demographics. Some consumers might still resonate with a quirky brand, particularly in the context of direct-to-consumer (B2C) healthcare services.

B2C healthcare marketing often caters to a different set of expectations compared to B2B (business-to-business) marketing aimed at healthcare professionals. Quirky messaging, in the right context, can be highly effective.

So, where does that leave us? Well, as healthcare marketing is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour, striking the right balance between professionalism and quirkiness can be challenging, but it's essential. The key is to align your messaging with the expectations and preferences of your target audience.

Customisation is the name of the game in healthcare marketing. Your messaging should adapt to the specific needs and expectations of your audience. If you're targeting healthcare professionals, a more serious and focused approach is likely to be well-received. On the other hand, for a younger and more casual audience, a touch of quirkiness might work wonders.

Ultimately, the success of your healthcare brand and marketing strategy will hinge on your ability to communicate effectively with your audience while maintaining the trust and credibility that are so essential in the healthcare industry. So, be mindful of your target audience, and craft your healthcare marketing message accordingly.

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