Winning cases and setting precedent is important, but never lose focus on serving your client. If you have trouble developing a rapport with your client, there are steps you can take to fix it, which will benefit both of you in the long run.
Lawyers love to hear themselves talk and sometimes miss out on important details, including what the client wants. If you find you are having problems communicating with your client, stop talking and listen to what they are saying.
As noted above, you also need to focus on your clients needs, not yours. There are many strategic reasons for doing things certain ways, but some clients need resolution faster than others. Make sure you think about it whether your strategic move is really in the client’s best interests.
Be honest with your clients. Clients may not understand all of the details of certain legal theories, but they can smell puffery and a lawyer who talks big. Clients want a proficient and confident lawyer, not an overconfident salesman. When you cannot answer a clients question—just say I don’t know. Acting like a real person will help create a bond between you and your client.
16 Lessons in Customer Service from a Car Salesman | Web Worker Daily
(photo: lumaxart)
Randall Ryder is a Minnesota consumer rights attorney who sues abusive debt collectors and is a publisher of Elder Parent Help. Follow him on Twitter @randallryder.
