What do you do when you’re a consumer and looking for something to buy or somewhere to eat? You Google it, right? Then you evaluate your choices by reviews.

Your potential clients also rely heavily on online reviews to make informed decisions. Law firms are no different when a PNC evaluates who to work with. Online reviews have become a cornerstone of law firm growth, influencing everything from initial impressions to client acquisition.

The Power of Online Reviews

• Building Trust and Credibility: Positive reviews act as powerful testimonials, building trust and credibility with potential clients. People are more likely to choose a law firm with a strong online reputation.
• Influencing Search Engine Rankings: Search engines like Google consider reviews as a ranking factor. A high number of positive reviews can boost your law firm’s visibility in search results.
• Bonus if you reply to each and every review
• Generating Leads: Satisfied clients often share their experiences with friends and family, leading to referrals and new business.
• Identifying Areas for Improvement: Constructive criticism from reviews can help identify areas where your firm can improve its services.

How to Encourage Reviews

• Make it Easy for Clients to Leave Reviews: Provide clear instructions and links to review platforms like Google Business Profile, Facebook, Yelp, and Avvo.
• Respond to Reviews: Show clients that you value their feedback by responding to both positive and negative reviews promptly and professionally.
• Leverage Review Platforms: Claim your business profiles on popular review platforms and keep them updated with accurate information.
• Monitor Reviews Regularly: Stay on top of new reviews and address any issues promptly.

Managing Negative Reviews

Negative reviews are inevitable, but how you handle them can significantly impact your reputation. Here are some tips:

• Respond Publicly: Address the issue professionally and empathetically. Avoid getting defensive or blaming the client.
• Offer a Solution: Show the client that you’re committed to resolving the problem.
• Take the Conversation Offline: If appropriate, offer to address the issue privately.

Turning Reviews into Referrals

• Highlight Positive Reviews: Share positive reviews on your website and social media channels.
• Create Client Testimonials: Transform written reviews into video or written testimonials for your website.
• Incentivize Referrals: Offer rewards or discounts to clients who refer new business.

By actively managing your online reputation and encouraging clients to share their experiences, you can build trust, attract new clients, and enhance your firm’s overall success.

If you need help managing your online reputation and review management, contact me for a personal plan to grow your revenue with a better online reputation.

Marilyn Jenkins, Founder
MJ Media Group, LLC | Law Marketing Zone®

Marilyn Jenkins, a digital marketing strategist with nearly 20 years of experience, helps Law Firms grow through all aspects of digital marketing. Her clients have exceeded multiple 7-figures in revenue. You can learn more about Marilyn at https://lawmarketingzone.com