When a potential client is searching for a lawyer, they are making a big decision. That person wants to invest in someone that they can trust, who will listen and understand their needs, and then represent them in a court case. It may be safe to assume that the person making this search is going to be spending a lot of time researching on which local attorney will be the best fit for them. In the old days, that research would have been done by asking a family friend, looking through a book directory or – more recently – searching online through a desktop computer. However, the smartphone has quickly become the weapon of choice for finding any sort of new business.
What was once tech used for a quick several second glance is now a treasure trove for the young and old to find detailed information on something they need. In 2015, Google announced that mobile phone traffic overtook desktop traffic, and that number is only increasing. For your law firm, that’s going to affect you whether you participate or not. For example, search engine rankings and how potential clients are going to perceive your business through website.
How Mobile Marketing is Already Affecting Your Legal Practice
If you have a sleek, easy to use website for desktop computers, then it is fair to say that you are already ahead of the game than most lawyers. Problem is, if you don’t have a mobile optimized version of that website, then it is hurting your Google rankings on smartphones. The same year that mobile traffic overtook that desktop traffic, Google began penalizing websites that were not mobile friendly. That is, they become less likely to show up on top of Google search results.
A website that isn’t mobile friendly tends to be one that takes too long to load on mobile devices, and doesn’t have a design built for finger taps and swiping rather than clicks. Considering 95% of smartphone users have used their phone to look up local information, you can imagine how many potential clients looking for a law firm practice like yours don’t find you because of a website that isn’t mobile friendly.
Users who look on their smartphone for information about a local attorney tend to not take as long in the buying process either. When you’re searching on a phone, it’s easier to call the business for more information, or that person could already be nearby and may map directions to your law office. This is a client base that goes through the information gathering process faster, and wants results sooner. Mobile marketing isn’t just a matter of having a good mobile website. Having a plan for your law firm’s digital marketing means understanding how to lay out your content, what kind of content to write, and what audience to target. To get in touch with an online marketing coordinator who can help you, contact us today at Market My Market.