One of the most important strategies I use to build successful attorney-client relationships is to remain available and accessible to my clients. Even when things are extremely hectic and busy, I never let my attorney-clients sense that I am too busy for them. When they request something, I respond promptly with a short answer or suggest a time to talk. Mobile devices make it easy for me to reply to all requests.
The second strategy I use for building and maintaining successful relationships with my attorney clients is a “courtesy call”. This comes in very handy with my existing clients and doubles as a marketing strategy! I am in various stages of litigation with my cases, so if there is a lapse in workload on a case I make a courtesy call. Checking in with a friendly hello and calling for a status update on the case reminds the attorney that I am committed and thorough, and it is one of the best ways to discuss new cases and referrals to other attorneys. I love it when the attorney says, “I was just going to call you about a new case that I want you to review.” I would say eight out of ten times the “courtesy call” results in more work on the existing case, a new case or a referral to a new client. It’s a win-win situation, which brings me to my third strategy.
My third strategy is to update my communication on a case even if I’ve already written the report. No matter how much you research a case, you will wake up with those bright ideas and ah-ha moments. When I get those bright ideas, I communicate them to my attorney-clients. They are always grateful to know that I am still thinking about their cases, keeping them current and guiding them down the right path.
Julie Somen-Becker, RN, BSN, CLNC owns and operates Chicago Legal Nurse Consultants, Inc. She has been a nurse for 14 years specializing in neonatal intensive care, clinical education and management. Julie’s CLNC® business specializes in neonatal cases and resuscitation issues.
P.S. Comment and share your strategies for building successful attorney-client relationships.