Getting Referrals For Your Business

Referrals are often one of the key factors influencing someone to work with you. How many times do you see someone asking for recommendations on social media? When someone needs a professional or work done, they ask in their networking group who they know who does what they’re looking for. 
Having a referral marketing plan in place helps ensure raving fans are telling others about you. However, while we know the importance of asking for referrals when it comes down to it, the asking part can feel awkward or even aggressive.  But when you believe in the value of what you offer you can feel good about having others tell the world about you. You know the trust has been established. When you have the right mindset and a proven process in place, getting referrals is easy.  Here are some ways to get more referrals that don’t feel desperate with examples you can use right now:
1. Set an expectation for referrals 
Before you begin working with a new client, you can condition them to think of you as someone to send business to. You can also mention the incentive you offer for those referrals that result in a sale.
2. Ask for a virtual introduction 
A really terrific way to get referrals is to ask a contact to do a virtual introduction with the prospect. this can be done via a email or social media
3. Ask Satisfied Clients You Have Or Are Working With
The best time to ask a client for a referral is right after you finished working with them. They are excited about the results you generated and are ready to sing your praises to the world. Try something like:
"It’s my goal to help other great clients like you. So I was wondering if you knew of any other people who could use my services? I’d love it if you could send a short note to them with a few kind words and asking them to connect with me?"
4. Offer a gift or a small reward for referrals
Giving a referral takes time and energy. When you make it worth their while, people are more likely to take the time to do it.   As a sign of your appreciation for their efforts, offer to give them a gift card, a referral fee, discount, or other gifts if someone they refer you to hires you.  Building a business through word-of-mouth marketing would be more successful if there is a fee or a gift involved in exchange for getting more referrals. You can make a referral page on your website. Write an email to send to your clients and connections. Ask people in your Facebook groups. Let other networking friends or associates know you give rewards for referrals. Event if they don't or just can't use your particular type of service. Good luck and now go get that business!
-Roy