This has to be one of the easiest and best ways to build a small business. Building a business off referrals saves you and your team a lot of time and money spent on marketing. It also gives you the upper hand. When you are referred to a new customer or client, they’ve already heard great things about your business.
In fact, if you’re using referrals to build your small business, these new customers and clients will come to you. This gives you the freedom to say “yes” or “no” to anyone who comes our way. It gives you the ability to raise your rates more easily as these new people are more likely to say yes to your rates since they already know how awesome you are.
But how do you get those great referrals? Here are some times to help you start.
Do Good Work
This may be obvious but if you don’t do great work, you won’t get referrals from current or former clients. In general, the better the service you provide, and greater customer support you offer, the more your current clients will use your services. Leading to them telling their friends about their great experience, which can potentially bring you more business.
Ask Current Clients
It’s simple, ask. Most of the time, the reason you aren’t getting referrals, even if you are providing great service, is because you haven’t asked for them. Inform your clients about your desire to grow your business. Then, ask your clients to refer you! Your clients want to help your business grow. But they don’t think to refer you to others if you don’t ask them to.
Know When to Ask
The most ideal time to ask for referrals is right after they complement you, or right before a final deal closes. If things are going well, build off of that momentum. Ask if they would refer you, or if they know of anyone who could benefit from your services.
Keep it Simple
Make sure to tell your clients how they can refer you, and where they can go to write you a review. Give them an easy way to provide feedback, submit a new lead, or share your services through their social media. The easier you make it for them to share your services, the more likely they’ll be to refer you.
Thank Them
It’s always important to thank your clients for working with you and for referring our business to their peers. Without them, and their referrals, you may not have a successful business. Thanking them not only works as a reminder of your business, but as a relationship building strategy. Remember, growing your relationships with current clients will help you grow potential clients in the future.
Be sure to visit the Bullfrog Small business insurance often for more tips on marketing, productivity and risk mitigation.