Research for law firms
Our survey of 500 British consumers indicated that major high street brands could potentially command support from more than a quarter of consumers if and when they launch a legal services offering.
The findings of the Legal Services Survey 2011 from specialist marketing and PR agency RTS Media indicate that solicitors will be up against strong competition from these new entrants and must arm themselves against the onslaught.
The outlook for traditional law firms is far from bleak however, and the Legal Services Survey 2011 details a number of trends about consumer behaviour which could favour traditional solicitors. While the public appears to trust high street brands, they respond well to personal recommendation, transparent pricing and experience.
- 43% highlighted 'a personal recommendation' as the most persuasive factor in selecting a lawyer.
- 17% demanded an 'up-front pricing structure'
- 14% said they would be attracted by the provider which could demonstrate 'experience'
- 8% wanted the ability to 'speak to a lawyer on the phone' when it suited them
You may think that these are obvious. Perhaps so. But does your website and social media strategy actively encourage clients to recommend your firm to others? Do your leading lawyers regularly feature in the media – offering expert comments on relevant issues? Does your website and PR campaign reflect your experience with case studies and testimonials? Are your fee earners genuinely available for clients to contact them in a manner that suits them?
A niche PR and marketing agency with a strong commitment to the professional services sector, RTS Media delivers high quality media, marketing and social media services to a national portfolio of law firms. We help them reach out to potential new clients and raise their profile in key markets.
We know that the legal services industry faces one of its biggest challenges to date. That is why we want to play our part in strengthening the brands of law firms to withstand the pressure of increased competition. This is an opportunity for law firms to embrace a new legal services landscape. To taking the chance to reaffirm who they are and what they can offer clients."
