4 Easy Ways to Get More Referrals Without Feeling Pushy

Non-aggressive examples of how to use word of mouth marketing to grow your business

Word of mouth marketing works.

In fact, references are often one of the key factors influencing someone to work with you. For us, we account for about 90-95% of new business from referrals.

How many times do you see someone asking for recommendations on social media? When someone needs a professional, 9 out of 10 times they ask their network who they know who does what they are looking for.

So having a referral marketing plan in place helps ensure that 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 seem awkward or even pushy.

But when you believe in the value of what you offer, you can feel good about others telling the world about you. When you have the right mindset and a proven process, getting referrals is easy.

Here are 4 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 start working with a new client, you can condition them to think of you as someone to send business to. That may look something like this:

“I’m excited to work with you. When our project is complete, I know you’ll be delighted with the work we’ve done together. If you’re happy with our work, would you be willing to share us with others? Your referrals are how our business grows.”

You can also mention the incentive you offer for those referrals that result in a sale. For example, we offer $100 for any website, SEO, or marketing work as our way of saying “thank you.” (See #4 below for more details on this.)

2. Request a virtual presentation

A really great way to get referrals is to ask a contact to do a virtual presentation with the prospect. Here’s how an email like that goes:

Subject: Henry and Mike: A Virtual Introduction of (Your Name)

Hello Mark,

I have been working with Mike for three months and he has done an excellent job of updating our accounting. I know he’s looking for a qualified bookkeeper, so I thought I’d put the two of you together.

Mike, you know Henry from Company A. I’ve known him for five years and he’s really made a name for himself in the industry. It has been very valuable to have him in my circle. He mentioned that he needs a good bookkeeper and I thought you could help.

Henry, you know Mike from Company B. Mike and I have known each other for a long time. He is a true rock star when it comes to accounting. He makes sure our books are balanced at all times.

Here is the contact information for both. Now come closer and connect!

Henry: 555-555-5555 [email protected] companywebsite.com

Mike: 444-444-4444 [email protected] mikecompanywebsite.com

3. Ask satisfied customers

The best time to ask a client for a reference is right after you finish working with them. They are excited about the results you generated and are ready to sing your praises to the world.

Here is an example of such a question:

Subject line: FIRST NAME, Quick question.

I am very glad that you are satisfied with our PRODUCT OR SERVICE. I love helping people like you, so knowing you are thrilled with the results made my day. Actually, that’s why I was hoping to ask you a favor…

My goal is to help many more people like you. So I was wondering if you knew of any other people who could use my help. I would love it if you could send them a short note with a few kind words and ask them to connect with me.

With gratitude.

4. Offer a gift for referrals

Giving a referral takes time and energy. When you make it count, people are more likely to take the time to do it.

As a token of your appreciation for their efforts, offer them a gift card, referral fee, discount, or other gift if someone they refer hires you.

You can create a referral page on your website. Write an email to send to your clients and connections. Ask people in your Facebook groups. Let your vendors know you give rewards for referrals. Even put a sneak peek on the back of your business card to let others know.

Here is some sample text to use:

Get X for referring friends and family – I’d love to give you [insert your referral gift here] for every person who ends up hiring me. It’s just a small token of appreciation, as referrals are how we grow our business. Thanks for thinking about us!”

I hope these quick and easy examples have inspired you. Referrals are by far the most profitable way to build your business.

Being intentional about asking for referrals can open the door to unlimited growth. Here we wish you endless references!