A good review can go a long ways in building your reputation as a top-notch attorney in your local market. According to a study reported on by legal directory Avvo, 34.6% of consumers looking to hire a lawyer ask a friend for a reference, while 21.9% use online search to find an attorney. Of the consumers that searched for lawyers on Google, 29.5% then searched the lawyer's website and 27.6% read their reviews on Google. So not only do you want your current clients to give a good review to their friends, but you also want to make sure those reviews are making their way to the internet.
How do you go about getting good online reviews from clients?
It's pretty simple. You ASK. Don't be afraid to ask your clients for reviews. Sometimes, they just need a little reminder from time to time.
For instance, yesterday I dropped by my chiropractor's office for a quick adjustment for some nagging neck pain that wouldn't go away. As I was checking in with the receptionist, there was a bright Google flyer displayed in the front desk area that said "If you have enjoyed your experience with us please take a moment and share that with a positive review. Thank you in advance!"
Wow, what a great idea! I love my chiropractor's office, and I would be happy to give them a good review. I just don't always think about doing so as I'm leaving pain-free, ready to move on with my day. But that flyer prompted me to take a moment to thank them for their help in an online review.
Another place to ask for reviews would be in your email newsletter. Offer links for readers to access different reviewing sites such as Google, Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell and social networks such as LinkedIn and Facebook. This will help build your credibility and show future clients that you are reliable. And just as stellar reviews can help boost your Google rankings, lawyer directories will give you a better rating as well.
So, the next time you meet with a happy client, ask them for a review and let them know how much you appreciate their feedback.