Beyond Word of Mouth: Systemizing Referral Marketing with Barb Betts 

Learn the Power of Referral Marketing for Attorneys to Build a Thriving Law Practice

In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve and guest Barb Betts dive into the essentials of referral marketing for attorneys. They explain how building strong, intentional relationships can transform your client acquisition process into a reliable growth engine.

Barb introduces her BUILD methodology, which helps attorneys move beyond casual word-of-mouth marketing. She explains how to create a consistent, repeatable system that strengthens relationships and attracts high-quality clients. This strategy applies not just to your professional network but also to volunteer work and community involvement.

Barb and Steve highlight how small, thoughtful actions—like handwritten notes—can deepen trust and loyalty. Even dedicating just one hour each week to nurturing relationships can make a huge impact on your firm’s growth.

They also explore why referral marketing for attorneys works best when built on authenticity. Many lawyers try to impress with polished presentations and expertise alone. Barb emphasizes that true success comes from showing up as your genuine self and standing confidently in your role as the expert your clients need.

This episode proves that a structured strategy for referral marketing for attorneys can dramatically improve both your client base and your bottom line. By implementing Barb’s insights, you’ll create a thriving practice supported by meaningful, lasting connections.

Catch Barb Betts live at this year’s Summit!

Barb will take the stage as a keynote speaker with How to Become Unforgettable: Build Relationships, Gain Referrals, and Unlock Reliable Revenue. In her high-energy talk, Barb will unpack her proven BUILD Framework—a system designed to help attorneys deepen trust, invest intentionally in their network, and create a client experience that drives repeat business and referrals. This keynote goes beyond sales tactics to deliver a roadmap for sustainable growth and genuine connection. Attendees will leave equipped with actionable strategies to build a law firm that clients don’t just remember, they rave about. Don’t miss the chance to learn from Barb in person and transform your approach to relationship-based marketing.

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Inside This Episode

  • Building a thriving law practice through authentic relationship building and the BUILD framework 
  • Transforming word-of-mouth referrals into a systematic referral engine 
  • Strategies for immediate implementation to enhance client engagement 
  • Importance of prioritizing customer service and leveraging team members for relationship-building 
  • Utilizing personalized gestures like handwritten notes to foster trust and rapport 
  • Implementing a five-star system to rank and nurture high-value relationships 
  • Focusing on authenticity and intentionality in professional and personal interactions 

Supporting Resources

Steve Riley

Steve Riley

Shareholder, Practice Advisor, & Attorney Steve Riley has coached attorneys for more than 20 years. His one-on-one coaching focuses on a limited number of top producing attorneys committed to taking their practices to new levels of excellence, profit, and personal success. He also presents at group coaching workshops around the country for individual law firms, state bar associations, and other legal organizations. READ MY FULL BIO
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