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  • Social Media Doesn’t Work Alone

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    Posted on October 7, 2011 at 8:06 am

    At a recent Legal Marketing Association (LMA) conference, one of the main topics of discussion was the challenge of business generation in today’s economy. Several participants said that far too often their lawyers are relying solely on social media as their main form of networking. There is no doubt that sites like LinkedIn and Facebook have made significant contributions to the way we do business, but meeting people in person and networking in real-time still proves to be the most effective way to generate business, which led to suggestions like these:

    • Get out from behind the desk: Nothing compares to talking in person. Live conversations allow your personality to come across and better interact with potential clients. So get out and meet people, you never know where your next customer will come from.

    • Identify potential hobnob spots: Where do your clients hang out? Maybe professional or charity events? The bar at the airport? Once there, you’ll have the opportunity to explain who you are and what you do.

    • Get active: Join groups and clubs: Whether it’s a gym or community service group, you are improving your chance to mingle and meet new people.

    • Never eat lunch alone: So your lunch buddy cancels on you again? Don’t fret; this is the perfect opportunity for you to network and meet potential clients. Instead of eating your PB&J by your lonesome, find someone to sit with and strike up a conversation. They or someone they know probably needs your service.

    While referrals from existing clients are still the most reliable source of new business, every new contact you make (in-person or online) is the first step toward building a new client relationship.

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    Comments

    Comment from Brian October 10, 2011 at 8:23 pm

    With all of the buzz surrounding social media nowadays, it’s easy to get tunnel vision. I think you’re right about not letting social media sites like linkedin become your main method of meeting clients. Nothing compares to the rapport you can build in person through organically created relationships.

    I’d also add that referrals can come from people you meet at random, without ever having that intention.

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