Law Firm Marketing and Business Development

During the COVID-19 pandemic, law firms have learned that a large number of "essential" services and Standard Operating Procedure rules and assumptions about how an office works are 1950's myths that need to be identified, examined and re-engineered or discarded.

During times of uncertainty lawyers can hunker down and wait it out, hoping that an opportunity to reengage with clients will present itself. Or they can lean into their discomfort and suspend their self-interest, meeting clients where they are even when there may be no immediate billable work or new business to be had. The latter approach creates a meaningful opportunity for lawyers to deepen relationships and set themselves apart from the pack.

One of the keys to success in competitive intelligence is communication. Effective communication builds rapport with your clients, which, in turn, builds trust and instills confidence that you will be able to get what they need to achieve their goals. During the COVID-19 pandemic, these elements of trust and rapport have never been more important. In times of stress, there is no time, and it's harder, to build trust and instill confidence.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, law firms have learned that a large number of "essential" services and Standard Operating Procedure rules and assumptions about how an office works are 1950's myths that need to be identified, examined and re-engineered or discarded.

It's safe to say that even if law firm marketers are familiar with Reddit, a very small percentage of lawyers are. But Reddit can be a valuable tool to market attorneys and law firms.

The recent move to more remote work environments has prompted many to take a second look at not only e-Signature solutions but also remote online notarization. In order to support transactional practice groups and legal department in making the transition to electronic signing and closings, one must understand the challenges and opportunities of these technologies.

If you're feeling drained or unsure what the next year will bring, try doing something optimistic and strategic. Try working on your 2021 budget.

An Integrated Strategy Despite the current uncertainty, though, developing solid plans with accountability, results and measurement can be done. Preparing a comprehensive business development strategy — one that is integrated with public relations — is more critical than ever to avoid being considered pleasant but boring elevator music.