And That’s Actually a Good Thing
I did it.
I officially hit a nerve.
And honestly? I’m glad.
First—let me be crystal clear about the point I was making.
I do not care what email platform you use.
Gmail? Love it.
Yahoo? Sure.
Smoke signals? Let’s talk.
BUT—if you’re emailing someone as a law firm, you need a branded domain email.
For about $12/month, you get:
- a professional look
- Google Workspace
- storage
- collaboration tools
- (and yes… better security)
But honestly?
I don’t even care that much about the security.
I care about the commitment to doing things right.
Looking Professional Is About the Small Stuff
You can wear Hawaiian shirts.
You can wear sandals.
You can have personality.
But you still need to look like someone I’d trust with my case.
Here are a few small things that make a big difference:
1. Use Real Photos
Not everything has to be stock imagery.
And please—don’t have a social profile with no photo at all.
People hire people.
2. Keep Your Branding Consistent
Your logo should match:
- website
- social media
- business cards
- everything
Consistency builds trust—even subconsciously.
3. Match Your Practice Areas Everywhere
If your website says one thing and Google says another… that’s a problem.
4. Assume Everything You Post Will Be Seen
Because it will be.
By clients.
By referral sources.
By opposing counsel.
By judges.
By your mom.
Post accordingly.
5. Google Yourself
Make sure:
- your profiles exist
- your info is accurate
- nothing weird is floating around
6. Google Your Law Firm
Same rules apply.
7. Please… Don’t Use a Phone Tree for Clients
“Press 1 if you’re a new client, press 2 if you’re a current client…”
I know—you’re trying to save money.
But you’re paying for it later in:
- missed opportunities
- annoyed callers
- lost trust
8. If Calls Go to Voicemail, Use a Real Message
Not the default robotic one.
This is not hard.
And it matters.
9. Fix Your Email Signature
“Sent from my iPad” is not a brand statement.
Have something you’re proud of people seeing.
10. Your Turn
What are the little things businesses do that instantly rub you the wrong way?
Tell me.
The best answers might get featured in a future newsletter…
or rewarded in some other fun way.
Final Reminder
Valentine’s Day is coming.
Buy the gift.
Make the reservation.
Splurge on your spouse, your partner…
or yourself.
Because details matter—in business and in life.
And this one?
Is worth getting right.