You didn’t go to med school to learn how Google decides who shows up on page one. You went to heal people, build something meaningful, and maybe—maybe—get home before 8:00 pm once in a while.
So it’s no wonder that when it comes to being found online, most providers assume, “Well, I’ve got a website. That should do it.” I’m here to kindly, professionally, and with a little bit of sass say:
Having a website is just the first step. If people can’t find it, it’s the digital equivalent of hanging your clinic sign in a cornfield.
Why You’re Not Showing Up (And Why It’s Not Your Fault)
Google is a little like a patient. It requires constant reassurance that you’re open, trustworthy, and genuinely accepting of new people. And that starts with something most doctors don’t even know exists: Your Google Business Profile (GBP).
This little piece of online real estate is prime digital property. It’s what shows up when someone Googles “dermatologist near me” or “pediatrician in [your city].” But here’s the kicker: If your profile isn’t claimed, optimized, and updated, Google will assume you’re either closed, irrelevant, or invisible. In other words, not good!
Here’s What You Can (Easily) Fix:
1. Claim Your Google Business Profile
Taking that action is like telling Google: “Hi, yes, I’m real—and open for business.” And if that already feels overwhelming, I can do this for your practice locations and all providers.
2. Ask for Reviews (Consistently!)
Nope, you don’t need 500. But a few kind words from happy patients? That’s marketing gold. Google pays attention. And future patients definitely do, too. Here’s how to make reviews work for your practice.
3. Make Sure Your Website Has Local Keywords
Include your city, your specialty, and what makes you different. For example: “Our dermatology clinic in Athens, GA, helps patients of all ages with personalized, evidence-based care.”
Let’s Make Sure Your Practice Isn’t a Best-Kept Secret
You’ve worked hard to build a space that helps people feel better, live better, and be better. Let’s ensure that it shows up when someone searches for “doctor near me” at 10 pm on a Tuesday, holding their phone in one hand and Googling symptoms in the other.
If you’re ready to stop being invisible online, I’d love to help.
Contact me for a strategy session, and we’ll develop a plan that feels manageable, effective, and enjoyable