The legal sector is facing a shift from the old ways and having to adjust to the demands of the digital age. With everyone online, attracting clients has turned to digital outlets. But this also means that there are new pitfalls to watch out for. Relegating digital development to marketing is an archaic mindset and a mistake to avoid. This simple guide points out a few things to keep in mind when dealing with a brave new tech-savvy world.
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How clients choose their representation
With the wealth of information available online, it is no wonder that people look to the internet to decide who they want to consult. Many firms now offer the option of an online consultation. This means that the pool of options has grown vastly for clients. You can look for legal advice from firms across the country from your own desk. Legal firms now need to put a lot of thought into investing in their online reputations. Dynamic websites and interactive options are standard upgrades. Word of mouth just doesn’t cut it anymore.
Public awareness
Again, with so much information available at their fingertips, clients approach legal firms already armed with information. They are not looking for a lecture on the basics of law because they have already done their homework. What the clients want to know is what you can do with them in the given situation. Keep in mind that they will usually approach more than one company. In this case they could be quite knowledgeable about what others offer too. Treating clients in a straightforward and transparent manner is the best way to go.
Networking
Networking has moved on from in person appearances at events to the internet. Websites like LinkedIn are a great example of individuals taking networking into their own hands. At the same time we get advised ever more strongly to be careful of what we post online. For instance, employers can judge potential employees based on their Facebook profiles. Keep in mind that professional and private reputations can be negatively affected. Networking online requires careful management and monitoring.
Privacy
It is also important to realise that openness brought on by digital advancement also means a lack of privacy. There have been countless cases of breaches in security and systems getting hacked. Clients do not want their information getting out and neither do companies themselves. Interactions online are like a minefield when it comes to what should or should not be put out there. Being careful and bringing in experts is a great step in becoming more modern as well as ensuring safety.
Streamlining and speeding up the process
Thanks to automation, you can speed through most bureaucratic processes. From finding the right representation to delivering documentation on entire legal processes, there’s very little that can’t be placed in the fast lane. In the past, research meant digging into dusty archives. Now searching databases is as easy as typing relevant terms into a search bar. Programs that can compile data in a matter of minutes are a great help too. Email and video conferencing allows direct contact between the lawyers and their clients. Bringing in more than one concerned parties has never been easier.
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This is why everyone involved in the legal sector should become well acquainted with such digital tools. Firms that can up their efficiency have competitive advantage in the industry. They provide faster and more flexible service.
Belinda Roberts, Content Marketing Manager, Cooper Mills
Belinda Roberts currently works at legal firm Cooper Mills
https://www.coopermills.com.