Client Development Tools:
Podcasts and Video: Innovative Ways to Promote Your Firm

Audio and video are revolutionizing the way information is conveyed via a law firm website or client extranet and in many cases are helping small firms compete with their much larger competitors.

In the most simple form, audio files can be used to communicate with clients using the Internet or a smart phone. A "podcast" -- which is the "street name" for a digital audio file broadcast via an RSS feed -- is relatively easy to create. From a client development perspective, podcasts are a great way for lawyers to educate clients on particular legal topics, build a reputation, and showcase work related to specific practice areas. The beautiful part of this technology is that the attorney can "talk" to clients anywhere -- a client can download podcasts to their MP3 or iPod, mobile phone or computer and listen at their leisure -- whether they are stuck in traffic or working out on the treadmill. Imagine that!

To learn more about podcasts and resources for creating and using them, visit the ABA Techshow website (www.abanet.org/techshow). While this annual event focuses exclusively on the technology that drives the practice of law, including the marketing tools, the website also provides links to helpful blogs, service providers and other resources.

Using video to promote the firm is more involved, both from a production and cost perspective. You most likely will want...