You may be wondering if Instagram is the right platform for lawyers, and the answer is a resounding yes!
According to SproutSocial insights, 71% of Instagram users are under the age of 35, and 37% of the users earn more than $70,000 a year. Additionally, an estimated 71% of U.S. businesses are on Instagram. So while Instagram may seem like an unlikely tool for your law firm, it’s a great way to reach new clients and show them who you are.
In today’s social-media-driven world, many prospective clients want to interact with companies before calling on their services. Clients want first-hand knowledge of what you’re like, how you work, and what services you have to offer.
A Few Things You Should Know
First, the time it takes to manage an Instagram account is minimal compared to other marketing strategies. Post a few times a week to keep your profile current.
Second, lawyers haven’t yet dominated Instagram, which means it’s easy to stand out in your area.
Tips For Getting Started
For starters, you’ll need to create your Instagram profile. The look and feel of your Instagram business account should immediately grab the attention of your clients and followers. Your profile image should be a business headshot or your firm’s logo.
Make sure you complete every aspect of your profile, including a short, but interesting biography, and provide a link to your website.
In the public business information section, you can add or edit your law firm’s contact details. A contact button will appear on your profile if you include your email and/or phone number, and adding your street address will allow visitors to get directions to your firm’s office.
For help creating compelling images, try using apps like Layout, Boomerang, and Hyperlapse supported by Instagram.
Schedule Your Posts
As a lawyer, you’re already short on time. Scheduling your Instagram posts in advance can save you hours and boost productivity. This is a feature offered on Instagram business accounts; additionally, you can use platforms such as Hootsuite and Later to help you schedule posts.
Hashtags Are Essential
Hashtags are like a keyword search clients use to find you. Some hashtags commonly used by legal professionals include #Lawyerlife, #Justice4All, #Lawsuit, #LawFirm, #InstaLawyer.
There are several great online tools available to help you find the best hashtags for your firm. Try sites like ritetag.com and tagdef.com. Include at least three hashtags every time you post.
Create Engaging Content
Your followers want to get to know you and your firm. Posting engaging content will help users do just that. Post the following types of content regularly to build an audience of loyal followers and attract new business.
– Provide information about your firm’s practice areas in a short video or infographic.
– Followers love to be in the know, so share behind-the-scenes content about what’s happening at your law firm. Topics can include new practice areas, new associates, cases you just won or settled, etc.
– Tag events related to your firm’s practice area. For example, if you’re a family law attorney, share your thoughts about a trending celebrity divorce.
While Instagram may not be your first thought when marketing your firm, there are many benefits to utilizing this social media platform as part of your digital strategy.
