This article was submitted by our friends at Clio, one of the biggest legal CRM providers on the market. Their goal is to use cloud-based, client-centered technology to drive positive social change and create a more inclusive legal system. The original post can be found here.
A strategic law firm’s client intake process has the power to win over clients and position your firm as the trusted choice. Below are four tips for creating a successful client intake experience.
1. Make a good first impression
First and foremost, to attract new clients, you have to make a good first impression. You can do this by ensuring your website accurately represents your brand and gets clients excited to work with you. Sharing a short, captivating story about why you pursued law and the magic you feel when helping clients is one way to really wow prospective clients. On top of the charm factor, you’ll also be setting yourself apart from other firms. You can gain even more inspiration and insight into creating high-quality online assets by reading our complete guide to law firm website content.
The best law firm website designs provide an effortless, client-centered experience while projecting a unique brand true to their practice. Understand more about prioritizing the digital user’s experience by learning from the 20 best law firm websites on the internet.
2. Be responsive and communicative
According to 86% of clients surveyed in the 2021 Legal Trends Report, the most sought-after trait for a lawyer is responsiveness to questions.
When a potential client engages with your firm via email, phone, or a form on your website, they want to hear back from you as soon as possible. One survey found that 46% of consumers expect companies to respond in fewer than four hours to their emails.
A straightforward process for replying to client communications will ensure you aren’t leaving any prospective clients behind.
3. Implement a pre-screening process
Another important consideration for client intake in law firms is creating and implementing a pre-screening process. Before you book an initial consultation, save valuable time by asking for enough information to determine whether a given client is a fit for your firm. Create a pre-screening form that includes:
- Questions about their matter so you can determine whether the scope of their case will fit into your practice’s workflow.
- The information you require from them for a conflict check.
- Supporting information about expectations and results.
- Anything else that might support your ability to consider their case at your firm.
Client intake software makes this process even smoother—it’s the fastest way to share public intake forms online, see the status of all incoming clients, and more. Find out how client intake software can build your client list by scheduling a Clio Grow demo today.
4. Simplify the scheduling process
Cut out the back-and-forth by setting up a booking link on your website and Google Business Profile listing. With one click, prospective clients can book time in your calendar without having to deal with voicemails or busy lines. Clio’s legal appointment booking software connects to your calendar and considers your availability and scheduling preferences so prospects can book a time that works for everyone.
Final thoughts on the client intake process
By following our tips above for your law firm client intake process, you’ll be well on your way to creating a positive and professional first impression with prospective clients. Being memorable for the right reasons will support your firm’s growth, allowing you to help clients for years to come. See for yourself how Clio can help your law firm. Schedule a call here.
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