Don't Make These 9 Mistakes!

Collecting and showcasing your reviews online is a powerful way to drive more clients and business to your firm.  But you do need to be aware of the mistakes that can be costly and time consuming.  The last thing you want to do is sabotage your efforts and drive people away instead.

So let's have a look at the top 10 mistakes to avoid with online reviews.

Mistake #1 - Not Using Reviews

Really, there is no excuse for making this mistake in our modern digital era.  And if you want your firm to compete and to be able to continue to attract future clients, you absolutely should be collecting reviews.

Potential clients expect and look for online reviews to help them make their choice in a solicitor.  Your firm will simply be passed over if you fail to provide what they want.  Fortunately, ReviewSolicitors makes it easy for you to get involved by collecting and showcasing your reviews for you.

Mistake #2 - Not Requesting a Review Right Away

If you wait too long to ask for a review, you might not get the same quality response as you would when your customer's experience is fresh and top of mind. You wouldn't want them to forget important details that demonstrate your skills and expertise, or produce a generic and bland review that might actually work against you.  Remember, excitement has a shelf-life, so capitalise on it!

Mistake #3 - Using Paper Rather Than Email

Not only is using paper more costly, but it takes longer to receive your reviews, and they require more physical handling.  You also open the door for issues like illegible handwriting, or files that go missing or get lost in the process. Stick with digital, keep your costs lowered, and speed up the process.

Mistake #4 - Using Fake Reviews

Not only is this unethical, but if you're found out your firm could be blacklisted and publicly shamed.  Of course this is the exact opposite of what you are hoping to achieve with your reviews, so just don't do it!

Mistake #5 - Using Canned Reviews

If you only provide your clients with a "fill in the blank" review form, you are essentially writing the review for them.  This will lead to repetition in your reviews, which looks suspicious and can cause you to lose credibility. ReviewSolicitors has invested a lot of time and effort into ensuring that the questions asked the client allow for everybody to easily express their true experience about your firm.

Mistake #6 - Offering Bribes

Offering incentives may seem like a harmless way to garner a positive review, but it is absolutely not advisable.  You run the risk of offending some clients who may then write a negative review instead.  Remember, your reviews are a reflection of your reputation, so build it accordingly!

Mistake #7 - Not Responding to Negative Reviews

A negative review does not have to be a bad thing, and is actually an opportunity to build a positive reputation.  If you show your willingness to listen and address the issue presented, most negative reviews can then turn into positive ones.  The majority of people are expecting a swift response, so the quicker you act, the better.  The idea is to be proactive rather than reactive, and we actually wrote a guide on this subject, which you can read by following this link

https://www.reviewsolicitors.co.uk/news/help-and-guidance-with-responding-to-negative-reviews/

Mistake #8 - Threatening Clients

Whatever you do, don't get defensive and argumentative if you receive a negative review.  Accept your criticism and remain calm and professional.  You want to control the situation, not exasperate it.

Mistake #9 - Not Using a Third-Party Platform

Many of these mistakes can be avoided by using a credible and reliable platform like ReviewSolicitors.  We are aware of all these potential pitfalls and work to build your firm up while you concentrate on what you do best.  When you delegate to us, we request reviews on your behalf and showcase them on our platform.  This saves you immeasurable time, and we all know time is money.

Closing Thoughts

So there you have it, the top 9 mistakes to avoid with online reviews.  By following this advice you can put this powerful marketing tool to work and attract a steady flow of clients for your firm!

To learn more about us and how to get your firm started, please visit https://www.reviewsolicitors.co.uk/signup/solicitor