Lawyers’ guide to client reviews: Boost credibility, attract cases
Online reviews play a crucial role in maintaining and growing a law practice. Here’s a guide on how lawyers can manage and acquire more online reviews from satisfied clients.
Why reviews matter for lawyers
In the past, people seeking a good lawyer would ask friends or family for recommendations. Today, many turn to online reviews to make decisions about legal help. In fact, 90% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business (BrightLocal, 2022).
Reviews are inevitable
People will write reviews whether you want them to or not. These reviews will influence potential clients’ decisions.
Reviews impact reputation and SEO
A steady stream of reviews helps you rank higher in local search engine results. Businesses with 10+ reviews rank 3.5 times higher in search results than those with fewer (Moz, 2021). This attracts more clients and enhances your online presence.
Reviews spread through social media
People like to share the reviews they write with friends online. 58% of consumers share their positive review experiences on social media (Podium, 2023). This can drive new business your way as their network sees these positive comments.
Review sites for lawyers to target
Before soliciting reviews, decide which sites to focus on. The “big three” are Facebook, Yelp, and Google.
Importance of diversifying sites
Consumers often have a preferred review site and will go directly there. Diversifying ensures you capture reviews across different platforms.
Setting up and verifying profiles
Create and verify your profiles on these sites to manage your reviews. This allows you to respond to feedback and ensure accuracy.
Niche review sites for lawyers
While broad platforms like Yelp, Facebook, and Google attract many visitors, niche sites target your exact audience.
Avvo
Exclusively designed for lawyers, used by almost 97% of U.S. lawyers (Avvo, 2023). It offers exposure, a Q&A section, and a search engine for finding local lawyers based on location, fees, or experience.
Martindale-Hubbell
Established in 1868, it provides client and peer reviews, allowing potential clients to assess your proficiency and expertise. You can display selected reviews to prevent negative remarks.
Lawyers.com
A free service with over a million attorney profiles and guides on legal topics. Clients can reach out directly via a contact form.
NOLO
Includes a lawyer directory with around 1 million consultation requests monthly (NOLO, 2023). It offers basic and premium memberships for publishing articles and targeted marketing ads.
How to ask your clients for reviews
To encourage clients to leave reviews without crossing ethical boundaries:
Request feedback after case settlement
At the end of your business dealings, ask clients if they were satisfied with your work. Asking for reviews within 7 days of a positive interaction yields a 20% higher response rate (GetFiveStars, 2022). Wait until the case is settled before requesting a review.
Make the review request personal
If the feedback is positive, ask them to write a review on a specified site. Ensure your staff leaves the client with a positive impression.
Strategies to improve review quality
Encourage detailed reviews
Ask clients to provide specific details about their experience. Detailed reviews are considered 50% more trustworthy by consumers (Trustpilot, 2023). Detailed reviews are more persuasive and helpful for potential clients.
Respond to reviews professionally
Engage with all reviews, positive and negative, in a professional manner. This demonstrates your commitment to client satisfaction and can mitigate negative feedback. Businesses that respond to reviews see a 12% increase in overall review volume (Harvard Business Review, 2021).
Potential issues in requesting reviews
Be cautious about when and how you ask for reviews:
Avoid asking during active cases
Wait until the case is settled before bringing up the topic of reviews. This ensures clients are not influenced by ongoing proceedings.
Be sensitive to emotional cases
Avoid asking for reviews in emotionally charged cases. This could be perceived as callous and harm your relationship with the client.
A systemized & automated approach
To simplify the process, consider using an automated system.
Use automated systems for efficiency
Automated systems contact clients with a single-question survey. It directs happy clients to review sites and unhappy clients back to you. Automated review request systems can increase review acquisition rates by 30% (Birdeye, 2022).
Ensure privacy and integration
The system is easy to use and private. It integrates with both major and niche review sites, making it a comprehensive solution.
By being proactive and systematic, lawyers can effectively manage their online reputation. This approach helps attract new clients through positive reviews and enhances the overall perception of their practice.
84% of people trust online reviews as much as a personal recommendation (BrightLocal, 2022).
Expert opinions on the importance of online reviews for lawyers
Jenna Thompson, Legal Marketing Consultant: “Building strong client relationships from the outset is key. Clear communication, setting realistic expectations, and regular updates can make clients feel valued. A personalized thank you email with a review link after case conclusion is very effective.”
Mark Davidson, Senior Partner at Davidson & Co.: “Exceptional service that exceeds client expectations is crucial. We conduct a brief exit interview at the end of each case, ask for feedback, and suggest leaving a review. This personal touch often leads to more positive reviews.”
Emily Roberts, Legal SEO Specialist: “SEO plays a crucial role in how reviews impact a lawyer’s online presence. Detailed reviews mentioning specific services or practice areas enhance local search rankings. Request reviews shortly after a positive outcome and provide a direct review link.”
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