How to Ask Your Law Firm Clients for Referrals

blog home Marketing Tips How to Ask Your Law Firm Clients for Referrals

Seeking referrals from satisfied clients is a great way to grow your law firm. And the nice thing about referrals is that they don’t cost you any money! But there are some basic steps you can take to encourage referrals, making it easier for satisfied clients to tell their friends and associates about you.

What Are Client Referrals?

Did you know that people are more likely to hire a lawyer if someone they trust recommends a specific firm? That’s why referrals can be more persuasive than appeals made through your regular marketing channels.

Client referrals are when someone you’ve worked with in the past recommends your services to others. This happens when a client has a positive experience and wants to share it with friends, colleagues, or family members who require your assistance.

How to Request a Referral

It’s important to choose the right moment to request a referral, such as after successfully resolving a case or when a client expresses satisfaction with your services. The ideal approach is to make the request feel like a natural part of your ongoing communication.

You’ll want to be straightforward and polite in your approach. For instance, you could say, “If you know anyone who might need legal assistance, I would be grateful if you could mention my services.”

Share Your Contact Information

Ensuring clients have your law firm’s contact information and other important details will help facilitate effective referrals. Make sure to include your phone number, email address, website URL, and social media profiles associated with your law firm.

It’s also helpful to have business cards to easily distribute, as they can be passed along by your clients. Including your contact information in follow-up emails or thank-you notes also makes it easier for clients to pass along your information.

Stay in Touch With Clients

Keeping in touch with clients through periodic emails and calls is another effective way to maintain engagement and foster loyalty. Regular communication helps you stay at the top of clients’ minds, but be mindful not to overwhelm them with excessive messages.

Periodic emails, calls, and letters serve as effective tools for staying connected. Personalize these messages, when possible, by addressing clients by name and referencing past interactions.

Another good strategy is sending informative emails that provide value, such as legal updates, insights into your practice, or tips relevant to their interests or industry. These emails should be concise, clear, and respectful of the recipient’s time.

Occasional phone calls add a personal touch to your communications, enhancing the relationship by allowing for warm personal interactions. Use calls to check in on client satisfaction and address any concerns they might have.

Respond Quickly to Client Requests

Managing communication effectively can lead to more client referrals, as clients are more likely to recommend a lawyer who is responsive and attentive. Make it a goal for your office to acknowledge inquiries quickly, even if you can’t provide a complete response right away.

A simple message confirming receipt and outlining when you can follow up is often appreciated. This practice improves client satisfaction while setting a standard of professionalism for your law firm.

Show Gratitude for Referrals

When someone takes the time to recommend your services, acknowledging their effort will strengthen the relationship and encourage future referrals. Send a personalized thank-you message, whether as a handwritten note, an email, or a phone call, to convey your appreciation. Highlight the impact their referral has on your practice, making them feel valued and recognized.

If appropriate, consider offering a token of appreciation, such as a small gift or a discount on future services. This gesture can further solidify the relationship and demonstrate your sincere gratitude.

Let’s Grow Your Law Firm Together

Attracting new clients to your law firm can feel like an ongoing challenge, but SLS Consulting, Inc., is here to help. Our client’s websites have a conversion rate of 5-7% (much higher than the average 2-3% within the industry).

Call (323) 254-1510 and schedule a FREE consultation with us for more information—you’ll be glad you did!