Here’s hoping you had a wonderful weekend and are ready to get back to marketing full-force. This morning I want to give you a few more tips for actively seeking referrals. Hopefully you’ll find them helpful and, eventually, will see the number of outside referrals you receive from friends and networks coming in faster than you can contact them!

Communicate with Your Referral Sources

Coworkers and businessess partners may give you referrals, but you shouldn’t just take them and run. Make sure you get in touch with your referral source later on down the line and let him know the outcome of your contact. Those who give you referrals want to know that you aren’t wasting their time. Why should someone giveyou a referral if you aren’t going to bother making contact? They’ll also want to know if the person they referred you to was cordial, open to suggestion, or purchased your product.

Thank Your Referral Sources

Saying “thank-you” is one thing, but sending a card, gift, or taking someone to lunch will actually show how thankful you really are. Referral sources that feel as though they are appreciated are much more likely to remain referral sources. Failure to acknowledge their help, even if the referral didn’t work out for you, will only discourage future referrals from that source.

Ask Your Family and Friends for Referrals

This strategy will only work if you haven’t already alienated your family by having them participate in numerous failed ventures, but usually your family and friends are the best source for referrals when starting a new campaign. Let them get a sneak peak of your new product, offer them a special discount, and then ask them to fork over the names and phone numbers of friends they know who could use your product (or, ask them to give out your business card).

Building a list of referrals (and referrers) is not difficult but will take time. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see results from your referral efforts right away. Not everyone will need your services at the same time. You might be surprised when someone you met six month ago comes knocking on your door!

Sean

Sales Expert - Marketing Consultant – Motivational Speaker