Social media: 85% had never used Twitter
Fewer than half of solicitors in Scotland use the three main social media platforms for professional purposes, according to new research.
The Law Society of Scotland poll of 500 solicitors, carried out by Ipsos MORI, showed that the most popular social network tool was LinkedIn, with 24% using it on a daily or weekly basis and a further 18% using it less than weekly.
Some 14% of solicitors posted comments on Facebook on a daily or weekly basis while just 7% tweeted at least once a week. Around 85% of those interviewed had never used Twitter.
The highest usage of social media was among trainees and newly qualified solicitors. Those at partner or senior partner level were the least likely to have used any social media channels to communicate.
Those working in urban areas were also more likely to take to social media platforms, with 25% using LinkedIn on a daily or weekly basis.
Lorna Jack, chief executive of the Law Society of Scotland, said: “Social media has revolutionised the way we can communicate, follow current events and keep in touch with one another on both a personal and professional level.
“It’s perhaps not too surprising to see that the legal profession, like many others, is only beginning to adopt these new communications tools as they consider how they can be used to benefit their businesses and advance their careers. However, there are increasing numbers of solicitors who are using these forums very effectively to communicate with their peers and with clients.
“It will be very interesting to monitor the changes in its use in the coming years as those coming into the profession and have grown up with the likes of Facebook and Twitter begin to use social media as a professional tool. As someone who tweets fairly regularly, I’m all for using the exchange of ideas and the networking potential social media channels present.”
Earlier this year, the society issued detailed guidance for solicitors on using social media.
