Bankruptcy Lawyers And Referral Marketing – 7 Sources You Need To Know

I’m struck by how often bankruptcy lawyers talk about getting more referrals without engaging in a consistent referral marketing strategy.  They go to networking groups, glad-hand at cocktail parties, and generally make themselves known.

The problem is, they’re often making themselves known to the wrong people.  This is like standing on the corner with a bullhorn asking passers-by to send you clients.

Consumer bankruptcy lawyers do need to network for referrals, but in a different way.  Going to a BNI meeting or similar referral-based networking organization isn’t going to do much to get you new clients who are struggling under the weight of credit card and mortgage problems.

Here are my top 7 places for bankruptcy lawyers to ramp up their referral marketing efforts:

1. Human Resources Managers: With massive layoffs in every industry, many companies are offering outplacement assistance to help their former colleagues get back on their feet.  When those newly unemployed people encounter bill problems, they are likely to go to their human resource people for help.
2. Real Estate Brokers: A homeowner needs to sell a house, but it’s heading into foreclosure.  Who better to help stave off foreclosure than a bankruptcy lawyer?
3. Mortgage Brokers: A homeowner needs to refinance but is facing foreclosure or credit card debt that makes refinancing difficult.  Bankruptcy to the rescue!
4. Car Dealers: The consumer wants a new car, but has too much debt to make it happen.
5. Hairdressers and Barbers: Better than bartenders, these professionals hear every manner of woe.  When a customer has bill problems, the person cutting their hair can give out a pointed recommendation to a lawyer who can help solve the problem.
6. Clergy: Ministers, priests, rabbis, imams and the like all help married couples get through tough times.  The biggest marital strain?  Bill problems.
7. Accountants: When a taxpayer has problems, bankruptcy may be the solution.

The list goes on and on, but remember – networking can be a critical part of your marketing efforts, but only if you’re networking in the right places.