Although email newsletters can be effective at generating immediate new business for law firms, they are even better at creating awareness and generating future business. By regularly sending email newsletters to colleagues, referrals, clients and potential clients, your firm can position itself front and center for the moment when one of these contacts needs representation, or knows someone who does.
In addition to reminding email recipients that you are out there, a regular newsletter also reminds clients and potential clients of your specific skill set and experience, and that you are knowledgeable in a wide range of legal matters.
The reality is, not all of your contacts need all of your services all of the time. But some of them will need some of your services some of the time. By regularly and consistently reaching out to each and every one of your contacts, you dramatically increase the likelihood that those who need representation will reach out to you when they need it.
The open rate on law firm emails is 22%, which is slightly higher than the average for all industries. This means that if you send your newsletter to 1,000 contacts, 220 will open it. But whether or not those contacts actually read the newsletter is largely dependent on the hook—is it relevant, do the first few lines capture their attention, and is the email itself aesthetically pleasing?
Ideas for subjects/topics to email about:
• New technology or services
• Case studies
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Topical issues
• Relevant stories in the news
• Infographics
• Listicles
• Community service
The content does not have to be earth shattering, nor does it have to be lengthy. But it does have to be well written, informative, and relevant. Your goal with an email newsletter is to stay in front of clients and potential clients, and to position yourself as an expert in your specific area(s) of practice. By sending relevant content directly to their inbox, each and every month, you increase your chance of being the firm at the top of their mind when they need legal representation.