It may be unethical. It’s definitely bad posture. More than anything, it doesn’t work.

I’m talking about spamming people (on Facebook, for example) who never expressed interest in your services or in the legal issues you handle, and saying, “If you have/need/want. . .” to contact you for an appointment.

On the other hand, there’s nothing wrong with telling people what you do and asking them if they want to learn more.

Just don’t make those the first words out of your digital mouth.

First, talk to them about one of their posts, or about something they’ve revealed about themselves. Answer their question, offer a tip, comment on their idea or photo.

Have a conversation.

Find a way to mention what you do, or, ask them what they do for a living. They’ll usually ask you in return.

Then you can tell them what you do and ask them if they’d like to get some information about your services.

The easiest way to do that is to tell them about your new article, report, blog post, checklist, or the like, and asking if they’d like a copy.

Because marketing is different than advertising.

What to say when someone asks what you do: How to Sell Your Legal Services in 15 Seconds or Less.