Online reputation management is an imperative process for lawyers. It’s a common misconception that your reputation can only be affected by what you say and how you act. Your reputation is affected by all of the above, plus who is saying it about you and how they are saying it, as well as what other people are saying about them.
Lawyer reputation management commonly refers to tactics used by law firms and attorneys to reduce the amount of negative impact their name receives on the internet. More than ever, your online presence will affect your ability to practice law, get clients, conduct business deals, and much more. So what exactly do you need to do to manage your reputation properly?
1. Identify the Current Reputation of the Lawyers in your Firm
One of the first things that must be done to manage the reputation of your firm and its lawyers is to identify the current importance that each lawyer has online. This can be done through several companies specializing in monitoring online reputations for lawyers.
Having a comprehensive list of all of your lawyers and their online reputations will give you a better understanding of what you’re dealing with and help you to plan for the future strategically.
2. Handle Negative Reviews
A negative review or comment about a lawyer could already hurt their ability to win cases, get clients, and network with other lawyers. It’s also important to remember that online reviews and comments never go away and are now a permanent aspect of your online reputation.
You want to take the necessary steps to remove negative reviews and comments as soon as possible. Lawyers who respond to their negative thoughts and comments with a professional apology also tend to see a considerable reduction in the number of negative reviews they receive.
3. Ask for Positive Reviews
Positive reviews are just as critical as negative reviews. Not only do positive reviews bring in new clients, but they also help build your online reputation.
It’s essential to ask for positive reviews from clients online and in person. There is a good chance that your customer will not write a review if you don’t ask them to, so why not ask?
4. Monitor Everything
You need to monitor everything said about you and your firm online. Pay attention to the actual words that are being used. Negative reviews and comments tend to exaggerate. Respond to each according to your law firm’s reputation management strategy.
5. Get your Online Reputation on the Right Track
Lawyer reputation management is not something you want to overlook. You must monitor your online reputation daily to protect yourself and your business. This means you need to watch what people are saying about you and what they are saying about everyone else. Online reputation management uses various strategies combined with a unique approach to each client. A well-crafted plan ensures your firm’s reputation management is handled correctly.
Let us help you with your family law marketing strategy, specifically your online reputation management. Family Attorney SEO can increase your firm’s value and strengthen your credibility. Get in touch with us.
