Media Strategies For Lawyers
Learn How To Stand Out
A law practice that isn’t on a social media platform might as well be invisible to anyone under 40. Blogs, social media, video, and podcasts are where people turn to when they need information.
Unfortunately there are mountains of garbage advice on these topics. People create farcical versions of themselves to prey on unsuspecting lawyers. I’ll help you cut through the crap.
“Facebook and LinkedIn and Twitter, oh my!”
Why Should I Care About My Online Reputation?
One of the first things you need to do as a professional is begin to build a “digital moat” around your online name and reputation. All it takes is one bad review or bitter client to put you in a bad spot. Suddenly anyone who searches for you thinks you’re a bad lawyer. But if you’ve taken the time to build and grow your online reputation, then you don’t have as much to worry about.
Awhile ago I spoke with AttorneySync CEO Gyi Tsakalakis about the basic preventive measures you should take in order to protect your name online.
Here is a quick list, watch the video for details.
- Buy a domain with some version of your name. JaneDoeLawyer.com
- Build a website on the domain. This does not have to be robust, a one-pager will do.
- Register accounts on the three major social media websites: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn.
- In the social media profiles you create, link to your domain.
- If your law firm has a website with some solid authority/ranking, makes sure your personal profile page is robust.
- Claim basic profiles on lawyer registry/review sites.
- If there are pictures of you on the web (social media profiles, headshots on your website or firm page), make sure you are properly labeled. “Jane Doe” not IMGDR4385.JPG.
- Be present online – blog, be active on social media, write for a totally separate publication.
But How Do I Get Noticed?
The above steps will make sure you’re at least protecting yourself online. But they’re not going to help you stand out online. That’s an entirely different ball game.
95% of people holding themselves out as online media gurus/mavens/experts are snake oil salesmen. They’re taking advantage of people who want to get noticed. But people are misinformed and get taken advantage of by the “gurus” out there. Don’t be one of them.
I have a big project coming on this front, but it’s not ready yet. In the meantime, you can start learning about how to stand out online below.
Navigating Online Media
Just Because Someone Says Something Nice About You, Doesn’t Mean It’s True
People will do almost anything to get your attention online. And when someone plays to your ego, it’s tempting to not look beneath the surface.
Could Your Social Media Posts Prevent You From Becoming A Lawyer?
Spoilers: Yes. State Bars are now reviewing your social media profile when you apply to take the Bar. Here is a case study of such an action.
What’s The Point Of Legal Blogging?
Why blog? You probably won’t gain fame or fortune. You might get some clients. But what you’ll mostly get is more blogging. Make sure it’s what you want.
Develop Selective Focus (Avoid "Garbage In, Garbage Out")
You are what you eat – both mentally and physically. So what is your information diet? What media do you consume?
And The Most Trusted Type of Advertising Is...
People have to trust something or someone before they buy a product or retain services from them. So where do they start when looking for lawyers?
The Hyperlink: A Microtransaction of Trust
Every hyperlink from an established website or blog to a new one is a microtransaction of trust. How can you make sure someone should trust yours?
What Is The Difference Between A Personal Brand And A Reputation?
Your personal brand is what you say about yourself, but your reputation is what others say about you.
You’re Being Played By Twitter
Twitter is my favorite social media platform. But it can also be nefariously addictive. Why? Engagement statistics and positive feedback loops.
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