Communication is an important aspect of any business, and for lawyers, it can make or break your practice. Every time you take on a new client, send invoices, or case updates, the person you are talking to is slowly shaping an idea about your work ethic and the experience they will have, all from your communication.
Delayed responses from your law firm will mean you’ll lose some clients, or worse still, the ones you have will leave a bad review. Referrals are essential in the legal field; that is how you get new clientele.
So, what should you do to ensure effective communication?
Communicate often
When clients come to you, they trust that they’re in safe hands. It’s your job to make them feel comfortable by updating them as often as possible while being concise. If you cannot meet them face to face, email or text them to keep the lines open.
In case you have updates on paper or want to share legal documents with them, use CoraLegal to securely and easily access the files. With CoraLegal, you won’t need to worry about safety and accessibility, as you and your clients can easily collaborate and correct errors on legal documents from any device.
Set prior expectations
Working in the legal field is tedious, and you will be swamped with work. That doesn't mean you abandon your clients, though. Before the work begins, it’s important to set communication expectations with your clients. Let them know the hours you’re available, when to contact you and where.
That way, they wouldn't be frustrated when they don't reach you after the agreed time. According to a 2018 study, over 68% of clients expected their lawyers to be available outside the office. Don’t ignore calls if the client reaches out after-hours but set the boundaries. If you want any legal documents signed or vice versa, you and your client can work on them using our legal document management software CoraLegal.
Select the appropriate mode of communication
With the onset of technology, you could be tempted to keep all communication between you and your client virtual. While it saves some time, it isn't advisable in some cases. If you have an update to deliver, you can email or call them. If you come bearing bad news, it’s better to tell them in person. No one wants to get bad news automatically delivered to their email.
Alternatively, you can hire virtual assistants to talk with your clients when they call, and you’re not available at the moment. You can also share information using our CoraLegal law firm project organizer software, which is secure and accessible from anywhere, on any device.
Develop interpersonal skills
While your clients have come to you for your legal expertise, that is not the only reason they’re there. When dealing with emotional cases, your empathy and concern will go a long way in making them trust you. Improve your emotional intelligence and know how to read your client’s emotional state. Learn how to keep your emotions in check and adjust according to the situation.
Final Word
Keeping a clear line of communication between you and your client will ensure confidence in both parties. The client will trust you, ensuring more cooperation from their end. Do you struggle with sending documents or information to your clients? Use our CoraLegal client portal software for law firms to share information with your clients and other lawyers easily and securely.
