How Public Relations Boosts Morale In Law Firms

Lawyers and reporters are often at loggerheads with each other. Both groups  cater to their own specific audiences, the court of law and public opinion respectively. In a global, fast-paced 24/7 wired world a reporter is very likely to call an attorney looking for an expert opinion, resource or as a for a story they are working on. Unfortunately, if you are like most lawyers you may not want to bother-afraid of being unprepared or being -misquoted-as a result, will miss out on good public relations opportunities.

Next time a reporter calls consider some of the benefits of getting  good press coverage:

1. Most clients like to see the firm's lawyer quoted in the news, particularly top tier press. Psychologically, it reinforces the belief that they made the right hiring decision.

2. Exposure increases business development opportunities.  Being quoted, interviewed, featured, or published in the media helps you gain visibility in the marketplace, and it confers  that all important 'third-party credibility.'

3. Although our economy is going through some turbulent times, remember that
what’s true for consumers of legal services is also true for lawyers looking
for work; they prefer a firm that is portrayed positively.

4. In high-profile cases/issues which draw media interest, an essential part of the job must be  to make sure the media cover the story accurately and fairly. As with most people lawyers DO  get a thrill out of seeing their own name getting ink.

Finally, public relations  has a ripple effect,  boosting the morale of other employees and instilling them with pride with the firm.

Of course, all of this is just empty rhetoric, if pr plans are not audited or implemented. Call me directly at 212-661-9137 or email me pmahli@suncommunicationsgroup.com