VMP 289: Veterinary Practice Email Automation Workshop With Michael Shirley

In our latest episode, I had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of email marketing with some fantastic guests from Family Pet Health. Joining me were Michael Shirley, co-owner of Family Pet Health, Stephen Shirley, their Director of Operations, and Haley Cameron, who handles social media and public outreach. We explored how veterinary practices can harness the power of email marketing to not only attract new clients but also engage and retain existing ones. This episode is packed with actionable insights that any veterinary practice can implement to boost their email marketing game.

We kicked things off by discussing the current state of email marketing at Family Pet Health. Michael shared how their email efforts have been somewhat sporadic, primarily focusing on informational content. However, they've recently ramped up their email frequency, sending out more emails in the last few months than they did in the previous nine months combined. The challenge, as Michael pointed out, has been incorporating strong calls to action in these emails. We then delved into their specific goals, like increasing dental compliance and raising awareness about their fear-free certification. Stephen highlighted the ongoing challenge of improving heartworm compliance, emphasizing the need for better communication with clients. We also touched on the tools they're using, like Pet Desk and Mailchimp, and how they plan to leverage these platforms more effectively.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of setting clear expectations with clients regarding email frequency and content. We discussed strategies like welcome sequences for new subscribers, win-back sequences for lapsed clients, and nurturing emails that provide valuable information while encouraging action. Michael stressed the need for educational content that guides clients on the next steps, whether that's booking an appointment or learning more about specific services. Haley shared her experiences with community outreach events and how email marketing plays a crucial role in promoting these initiatives. We wrapped up by discussing the value of client feedback and how being responsive can help create a collaborative relationship with clients. Overall, this episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for any veterinary practice looking to enhance their email marketing efforts.