{"id":6816,"date":"2019-01-31T05:00:48","date_gmt":"2019-01-31T05:00:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.clio.com\/uk\/?p=6816"},"modified":"2025-04-14T09:46:21","modified_gmt":"2025-04-14T08:46:21","slug":"guide-to-online-reputation-management-for-law-firms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/marketing.dev.clio.systems\/uk\/blog\/guide-to-online-reputation-management-for-law-firms\/","title":{"rendered":"How Lawyers Can Build a Positive Online Reputation"},"content":{"rendered":"

What\u2019s the first thing you do when you\u2019re looking for a new product or professional service? You Google it. Whether it\u2019s to check credentials, find contact details, or read reviews, the internet is the first port of call. In fact, A 2025 Shapo.io report<\/a> found that 85% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. So, how can lawyers take control of their digital first impression?<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s start with a simple test. Search for your name and your firm\u2019s name online. Try a few variations\u2014like \u201cJane Smith solicitor\u201d and \u201cSmith & Co Legal.\u201d What shows up? If you’re seeing your website, LinkedIn, or professional directory listings, that\u2019s a good start. But if you spot outdated info, dodgy reviews, or content that\u2019s completely off-brand, it\u2019s time to take action.<\/p>\n

Step 1: Be proactive \u2013 Ask for reviews (the right way)<\/h2>\n

In legal services\u2014where stakes are high and stress levels are higher\u2014it\u2019s often the happiest clients who are most inclined to leave reviews. But they won\u2019t do it unless you ask.<\/p>\n

Make requesting feedback part of your client offboarding process. A quick message along the lines of \u201cThanks again\u2014if you\u2019ve got a moment, I\u2019d really appreciate a Google review\u201d<\/em> does wonders. Yes, it may feel a bit cheeky at first, but it\u2019s perfectly acceptable\u2014and effective.<\/p>\n

Just make sure the feedback is genuine and unprompted<\/strong>. Under Competition and Markets Authority guidelines<\/a>, offering incentives for positive reviews is a big no-no.<\/p>\n

Step 2: Be positive \u2013 Respond gracefully to negative reviews<\/h2>\n

Even the most diligent, client-focused solicitor will get a negative review at some point. The law is rarely black and white, outcomes can be uncertain, and not all clients are reasonable.<\/p>\n

But here\u2019s the good news: one bad review doesn\u2019t define your reputation\u2014how you handle it does.<\/p>\n

Always reply professionally. Acknowledge their frustration, express regret, and invite them to contact your office directly. It shows the world you\u2019re open to feedback and genuinely care about client satisfaction.<\/p>\n

Important: Don\u2019t disclose confidential information, even if the client seems to have waived privilege. Keep it classy, keep it compliant.<\/p>\n

Oh, and while we\u2019re at it\u2014never fake reviews. Review sites are savvy to spam tactics, and getting caught can do real damage to your credibility.<\/p>\n

Step 3: Tackle third-party sites (if needed)<\/h2>\n

In rare cases, a disgruntled client might go full vigilante\u2014launching a blog or website just to discredit you. It\u2019s dramatic, but it happens.<\/p>\n

If you find yourself the target of this kind of online campaign, the best immediate remedy is overwhelming positive content. If things escalate, you might need help from an expert in domain name disputes or online defamation law.<\/p>\n

Step 4: Be prolific \u2013 Build positive content<\/h2>\n

There\u2019s an old saying in marketing: \u201cLong copy sells.\u201d<\/em> The more credible, useful content you have online, the more reassured potential clients will feel.<\/p>\n

Today\u2019s consumers are review-savvy. No reviews is a red flag. A single bad review amongst a sea of five-star feedback? Not so much.<\/p>\n

So start building your presence:<\/p>\n