It is November. A new Chambers and Partners UK research cycle is about to start. You may be one of the most sought-after partners at your law firm, you need to prepare for an important meeting, while being present at three others today – and you still have to tackle all those submissions. Or you may be the marketing manager, you have a lot to do, press releases, events, website updating, social media – and you still have to tackle all those submissions. Or perhaps you are a lawyer who is working hard to be made partner, you attend as many meetings as you can, bring new clients to the firm, put in the extra hours – and you still have to tackle all those submissions.
February ends and, with it, the research cycle. Whoever you are, when the directory season ends, there is one common feeling: relief. You think: “At last. For the next few months I won’t need to worry about submissions or referee spreadsheets. One less thing on my endless to-do list.” (OK, hold that thought as we are going to get back to it on our next blog, in a week.)
After all this, a big question often arises: why is it that I am devoting so much of my time and my partner’s time to this submissions marathon? Is it really worth it to be listed in legal directories?
Dear reader, I know this may not be what you would like to hear, but I will say it anyway. All the effort you put into your submissions is worth it. As the corporate world becomes more competitive, specialised and reaches global scales, having the endorsement of a legal directory is of critical importance. Imagine that a potential client is torn between two firms that have presented equally impressive bids: this person might refer to Chambers and Partners to make up their mind. Or place yourself in the position of an international client who doesn’t know the local market so well: time is of the essence and they might well choose which firms to approach after a search on The Legal 500 rankings.
Being ranked by legal directories gives a firm an extra quality stamp. Something that goes beyond a personal recommendation, it provides professional and authoritative assurance. Your firm has been benchmarked against many others and stood out. Your firm was evaluated following objective, impartial criteria and adjudged an outstanding player in its field of expertise. It works as a kind of additional warranty for your client. Being ranked allows you to promote with confidence the quality of your work.
On top of all this, it is an important branding and digital marketing tool, with many searches on Google pointing to legal directories pages in the first place. So, yes, it is truly is worth being listed by legal directories.
If you need help improving your rankings, get in touch with us. We can help you develop a strategic approach to each practice area of your firm, we can review your submissions and provide much more besides. All our services are tailored to your firm’s needs.