Are you using text messaging to communicate with your clients? Most of us carry mobiles, so your text reaches your client instantly when there is something significant to report. In many cases, this can be more effective than phoning, when your client might not be available and neither are you when they call back. You don’t have to break your concentration when the call is returned.Even if you send your client an email, they might not receive it until returning home in the evening and might have benefited from receiving the news during the working day. I like receiving a text to confirm my train reservation, or reminding me that my car is booked in for service tomorrow, so I would appreciate similar courtesies from my solicitor.

This doesn’t have to wear your thumbs out all day. Case management workflows can cause automated emails to be created at key moments, such as exchange of contracts or completion, and these emails can be converted to text messages by a third-party carrier. The lawyer does not have to do anything, yet the client is informed of the great event almost at the very moment it happens. The message does not replace email or other confirmation, but is an added extra.

Text message carrying is relatively cheap and yet creates a great impression on the client receiving the message. You will go up in your clients’ estimation in terms of client service and your reputation will be enhanced.