Logo Design
Many start-ups do this on the cheap, but it comes back to bite them in the you-know-what. You are going to use your logo for marketing and administrative purposes on your website, social media, letterhead, invoices, pens, notepads, signage, advertisements, etc. You need it in several different formats, and definitely a few versions in high-resolution formats. It is also great to get a brand style guide with your logo design – outlining the fonts, colors, and logo variations for consistent branding.
Website
You know you need this. Do you know how to make the most out of your SEO without spending a dime on paid searches or ad words? We recently took a start-up law firm with a common name from page 4 of Google to page 1. We did this by posting a handful of legal blogs that were carefully crafted so Google would love them.
Social Media
It gets the word out and if you link posts back to your website – it can and will drive traffic. LinkedIn and Twitter should be branded properly and used to showcase your knowledge and expertise. Facebook and Instagram should also highlight how smart you are. However, these should be more conversational (read: less stuffy). We have been starting Instagram pages for our clients. You know why? Because pictures are fun (and great for SEO)!
Email Blasts
Your announcement should be sent out with photos, links to your website and social media pages, have your email address(es), phone number(s) and physical address. Make sure your email list is comprehensive and includes clients, potential clients, referral sources, family, college and law school friends, and reporters (while you will likely send them a press release also, this is more personal). Send follow up blasts for other firm announcements.
Referral Tracking
Make sure your client intake forms have a spot for how the client found you. Website, advertisement, existing or former client (WHO?? Get names!), a professional referral source (another attorney, accountant, financial planner, therapist, etc.), a professional affiliation (Super Lawyers, bar association, etc.), friends, family… you get the point. Tracking this information is important. You can see where you are getting results and allocate dollars appropriately for advertisements, sponsorships, etc. – and make sure you acknowledge your referral sources.
Your Office
The reception area, conference rooms, bathrooms, kitchenette, and any other areas where a client will see should be clean and organized. Therefore, wipe down conference room tables and push in the chairs. Restock water bottles and snacks in waiting areas/conference rooms. Toss old news papers and magazines. Pick up paperclips, rubber bands, etc., from tables and floors. Clients notice these things.