There are a few provider listing websites to help you get noticed, but the key one to get right is the NDIS Provider Finder web page:
https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/working-providers/find-registered-provider/provider-finder
This tool is connected to a participants’ myplace portal so will see a lot of foot traffic.
It’s clear that the NDIS have put some thought into how to help participants find relevant providers by adding filters around location (suburb/postcode) and registration group, but here are some things to consider that may help you stand out (in the right way)!
1. Get your location right!
This might be a little hard for ‘mobile’ services. But having a physical address will do 2 things: Firstly, it establishes a local presence, reassuring nearby participants of your accessibility. Secondly, the tool links this address directly to Google Maps making navigation a breeze for participants and their families.
When you don’t list an address, the tool will list this as ‘unknown’. I’m not sure about you, but contacting a place with an ‘unknown’ address doesn’t sound that attractive!
2. Professional Email Matters
Gmail is free and you can set up a new email address in no time. Look at this from a participant’s perspective though. How serious of a business would be operating using a Gmail address? What would the quality be like? Getting a business domain registered shouldn’t cost too much and you can redirect this from Gmail too.
3. A Web Presence
I’m not suggesting that you need to spend thousands of dollars to get an impressive website, but having a web presence will help customers understand what your services are all about. Not including your website on the provider finder might mean that you aren’t taken as seriously as others who do.
4. The Power of your Business Name
By default, the provider finder tool randomises results so there is no need to outsmart it by trying to add special characters of ‘AAA’ to the front of your business name for it to appear first in the list.
5. Opening doors with Operating Hours
Less than half of providers list their opening hours. Doing so however will mean your entry stands out a little more. Knowing when to call you also helps as this stops potential participants trying to contact you out of hours.
6. Profession and clarity for Participants
About half of the providers also list their ‘Professions’. E.g., Disability Support Worker, Exercise physiologist. From a participant’s perspective, sometimes it may be hard to understand the services you provide by just looking at your business name. Additionally, ‘Registration Groups’ is not as commonly understood by participants, so this really helps cut through the provider matching process.
In a sea of provider listings, these strategic steps can set you on the path to standing out in a way that resonates with potential clients. The NDIS Provider Finder tool is a gateway to reaching those who need your services most, and by optimising your profile, you can ensure your business shines and offers the support that truly makes a difference.
