A recent YouGov consumer survey cited “quality of legal advice” to be the most important factor (87% of consumers) when choosing a will writing provider. Aside from cost, “ease of getting the will written” was important to 86% of those surveyed; 85% asked for “experience and qualifications”; and 70% wanted “local offices” and/or “face to face” contact.
Interestingly a well-known brand only came in at 40% – showing that independent solicitors and will writers can compete with the “big boys”.
So, as a provider of will writing and estate planning services, how do you stand out from the crowd? Here are eight quick tips we think might benefit you:
- Demonstrate knowledge by providing unique and informative articles and case studies to local newspapers and press – you’d have to spend a fortune to get the same exposure through advertising alone.
- People buy locally. You can raise awareness in your local area by a range of methods from presentations through to publishing articles and social media – whatever suits you.
- If you regularly present, don’t keep doing the same tired presentations. Liven up your presentation by quoting recent news stories, trends, statistics and research findings
- Ask for client testimonials to prove your experience and include them in your literature and website.
- Keep in touch with existing customers with a newsletter, or even brief emailshots with informative information which your customers won’t have read elsewhere.
- Try offering a monthly surgery and ask potential customers along to ask questions on different topics from “What is the role of an Executor” to “Inheritance Tax Planning.”
- Ensure you have a mobile friendly website. Like you, your customers will check out companies online before committing. Make your company look as professional online as you do when seeing them face to face.
- Ensure that your website has a Google business listing.
Today’s Wills and Probate will shortly be launching Editor Assist, a competitively priced Editorial Publicity Programme for solicitors and will writers. If you would like to pre-register or take part in our initial free trial please contact Karen.babington@practicalvision.co.uk
