Client reviews are vital to the success of any business, including your law firm. You’d be hard-pressed to find a prosperous business or law firm that doesn’t have favorable reviews published online.
Google loves reviews, consumers love reviews, and you’ll love the business that positive reviews bring to your firm. Online reviews should play a significant role in your internet marketing strategy, and getting reviews is easier than you think!
Tip 1: Just Ask
There is always some eye-rolling from a few attorneys, but those of you who are hesitant to ask for client reviews are missing out on a great marketing opportunity. Most clients who are happy with your service are more than willing to publish a positive review online.
If the attorney is uncomfortable asking their client personally, there are several other ways to ask for reviews that leave the attorney out of the equation. For instance, having an assistant or paralegal ask instead.
Simply create a process for requesting reviews with your team. Be sure to convey to clients that you will give them the opportunity to remain anonymous or use an alias when publishing a review for your services.
Tip 2: Ask Through Multiple Formats
Whether from yourself or a member of your staff, always start with a verbal request. Ask the client directly if they would write a review of your legal services. Once they have confirmed, you and/or your team can follow up with an email including instructions and a link to your review sites.
Because asking for a review may not always be top of mind, it may help to include it on your check list when closing out a case.
Tip 3: Review Sites
In order for clients to leave a review, you need to provide them with a link to your online profiles at specific review sites. While there are dozens to choose from, the most popular are Google My Business, Avvo, Yelp, and Facebook.
Having multiple options allows clients to use a platform they’re most comfortable with. Additionally, you can easily add a link to “Write A Review” from your firm’s website or your email signature as an added reminder for clients.
Tip 4: Tools To Help Drive Reviews
Did you know there are tools available to help attorneys get more online reviews? These tools are powered by automated software that can make obtaining and managing your reviews a lot easier.
Check out AttorneyConnectllc.com to help drive, manage, and track your firm’s client reviews.
Tip 5: Tracking Your Reviews
Lastly, you need to stay on top of responding to client reviews. Doing so on platforms such as Google and Facebook will boost your marketing power.
Providing timely responses to reviews signals to prospective clients that their opinion matters and helps establish trust in your firm.
Remember that getting reviews isn’t the goal. Getting positive reviews is what you should strive for. To achieve this, your firm should create an outstanding client experience from start to finish. Aim for the 5-star review by targeting satisfied clients. Positive reviews lead to better overall visibility on the web, more prospects, and more business.