Get More Clients: The Key to Asking for Referrals
No one will argue with the fact that referrals are the best way to generate new business. They’re compelling, cost-effective, and don’t require a ton of effort. We can all also agree that straight up asking for a referral can feel pretty awkward. You want more clients, but you don’t want to seem desperate or aggressive.
So how does a person go about making the first move with a customer to ask for a referral? This article will outline how, when, and who to ask, whether you’re solidly established or just starting out.
Give Them a Reason To
The best time to ask a customer for a referral is when they’re the happiest. Wait until you’ve given your client unbeatable service. Once they see you’re worth doing business with, they’ll be happy to recommend you to their friends, families, and business contacts.
Go above and beyond! Prove your value to customers, and they’ll want to hand out your info to their network. If you’ve hit a significant milestone - say you completed a six-month project - and your client is consistently praising your work, you’ve already established a great relationship. Your request for a referral will feel natural. Timing is key!
Make the Request Personal
Using an email template might be tempting, especially when it’s hard to know precisely how to word a request. However, putting in a bit of extra effort to write a personal message can make your clients feel appreciated and special. Make sure they’re aware of how grateful you are for their work and mention any details you really enjoyed about the job.
A generic form is easy to dismiss - click - and it’s gone to their trash folder. But a personalized note of thanks, accompanied by a sincere request to pass your information along will make them much more likely to refer you.
Be Deliberate About Who You Ask
Instead of pursuing every customer on your list, pick a select few each month to query. Focus on people you have a closer or more long-term relationship with. If the customer trusts you, they’ll feel more comfortable vouching for your products or services.
Keep track of your client feedback. Who is most happy with you? These clients will be more inclined to give you positive recommendations - especially if you follow up with incentives. Reward frequent customers or those who have spent a lot of money recently with a discount or incentive toward future services.
You Gotta Give to Get
If you know anyone who could benefit from a service or product provided by your client, refer them! That Facebook share button has more power than you’d expect. Even if you don’t know of anyone looking for their specific skill set, sharing their business is a classy move. Just be sure their work is something you’d use yourself.
Help your clients and customers expand their businesses by setting them up in your network, and they’ll feel motivated to return the favor.
Join the Biggest Business Referral Network in Dallas Today!’
If you or someone you know needs more networking ideas, check out ProNet, the Professional’s Referral Network. We can help you meet like-minded professionals and increase your business. Become a member today!