Instagram Self-Promotion Checklist
1. Profile Optimisation
• ☐ Choose a clear and memorable @handle (e.g. @DrSmithSmiles or @BrightDentalLondon)
• ☐ Use your clinic name or your full professional name in the display name
• ☐ Write a compelling bio with:
o ☐ What you do (e.g. “Award-winning cosmetic dentist”)
o ☐ Your location (e.g. “Based in Central London”)
o ☐ A patient-focused message (e.g. “Helping you smile with confidence”)
• ☐ Add a strong call-to -action (e.g. “Book your consultation � � �”)
• ☐ Use a high- quality logo or friendly headshot zoomed in as your profile photo
• ☐ Add a clickable link (e.g. to your booking system or Dentalbio link-in-bio page)
2. Content Strategy
• ☐ Define your content pillars (e.g. Smile Makeovers, Oral Health Tips, Behind-theScenes, Patient Testimonials)
• ☐ Use a mix of Reels, Carousels, Stories, and Static Posts
• ☐ Create educational content (e.g. “5 myths about teeth whitening”)
• ☐ Post before-and-after results (with consent)
• ☐ Share FAQs and common concerns (e.g. “Is Invisalign painful?”)
• ☐ Showcase your personality and team to build trust
• ☐ Include seasonal content (e.g. “Smile bright this Christmas”)
3. Visual Branding
• ☐ Maintain a consistent colour palette and font style
• ☐ Use branded templates for carousels and stories
• ☐ Make sure all photos are well-lit and high quality
• ☐ Add your logo subtly where appropriate
• ☐ Stick to a cohesive Instagram Grid layout
4. Engagement Tactics
• ☐ Respond promptly to comments and DMs
• ☐ Tag your location and collaborators (e.g. dental labs, hygienists)
• ☐ Encourage engagement with questions or polls in Stories
• ☐ Re-share patient tags and testimonials (with consent)
• ☐ Run contests or giveaways to grow followers
5. Posting Schedule
• ☐ Plan content in advance (ideally 2–4 weeks ahead)
• ☐ Post consistently (e.g. 3–4 times per week)
• ☐ Use scheduling tools (e.g. Later)
• ☐ Track best-performing days and times for your audience
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6. Analytics & Growth
• ☐ Monitor Instagram Insights weekly
• ☐ Track post saves, shares, reach, and engagement
• ☐ Identify what content drives new followers or enquiries
• ☐ Collaborate with local businesses or micro influencers
• ☐ Consider paid promotions for key services or events
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7. Compliance & Ethics
• ☐ Always obtain written consent before sharing patient photos
• ☐ Avoid making unsubstantiated claims
• ☐ Include disclaimers where required (e.g. “Individual results may vary”)
• ☐ Follow GDC and ASA guidelines for advertising