Asking for referrals in business is like building a volcano of success: it’s powerful, and when done right, can yield impressive results. According to invespcro, referral leads convert 30% better than leads generated from other channels. So if you’re looking to increase your bottom line, referrals should be a part of your overall marketing strategy. But like all things worth doing, getting referrals isn’t easy – it takes skill and finesse.
In this post, we’ll look at how to ask for referrals the right way. We’ll discuss setting the proper frame, making sure you target the right people, and how to reward your clients for their efforts.
It’s About Timing
Knowing how to ask for a referral starts with mastering knowing when to ask. You don’t want to be too pushy, but you also don’t want to wait until your client has forgotten about you. The best way to get referrals is by establishing a relationship with the client first before making the request.
It’s all about timing and having a professional team to help you identify and take advantage of that timing can make or break your business.
8 Tips To Ask For Referrals
Taking the time to establish a relationship with a client is important, but it’s only the beginning. Here are some tips on how to ask for referrals the right way:
1. Make The Request Special
Customers love to feel special, so don’t just send out a generic “refer-a-friend” email, just to save time. Take the time to craft a personalized message that shows how much you value your clients.
Connecting with your clients on a personal level will make them feel more inclined to give you a referral. Aim to ask for a referral that is not part of an email thread so it doesn’t seem like an afterthought.
Here are a few other tips you can use to make the request special:
- Use the client’s name in your message.
- Make sure you thank them for being great clients before you ask for a referral.
- Ask them to share their experience with friends and family while mentioning a few projects you have worked on.
- Don’t be afraid to charm them by telling them how much you appreciate their continued support.
2. Make Your Request Specific
Don’t just ask for a referral; be specific about what you need. Instead of asking them to send referrals your way, ask them for specific people who could benefit from your services.
If you’re looking for more than just a name, ask them questions about their experiences with you. This can help you get an idea of what kind of people would make good referrals and which ones your client might feel most comfortable referring.
3. Reward Your Clients For Every Referral
The best way to incentivize clients to refer their friends, family, and colleagues is by offering them rewards for doing so. This could be anything from a gift card or discount code to free products or services.
Rewarding your clients will show them that you value their referrals and appreciate their efforts in helping your business grow. It’s also a great way to thank them for being loyal clients, which can help create a better client experience for your business.
4. Reach Out To The Right People
Knowing how to ask for a referral includes targeting the right people. This means reaching out to individuals who are more likely to be interested in your services and can refer other like-minded clients.
You can find these people through client surveys, online reviews, and even social media. This will make it easier for you to create a list of potential clients who are likely to be interested in what you’re offering. Never neglect negative feedback from your clients as well. It sheds some light on what type of clients may be best suited for your services.
5. Make Sure “The Ask” Feels Natural
Don’t make the mistake of asking for referrals too soon after establishing a relationship with a client. Take the time to build rapport and nurture the relationship before making “the ask.”
The best way to do this is by being genuine and honest about your intentions. Let them know why you value their friendship or business and make sure that your request for referrals feels natural—not forced or scripted.
6. Approach Clients At A Convenient Time
When you’re asking for referrals, make sure that you approach clients at a time when they have the availability and energy to respond. That could be during a casual conversation or after they’ve completed a project with your help.
It’s also important to consider the level of engagement your clients might have with your business. If they don’t seem too interested or engaged in what you’re offering, then now might not be the best time to ask for referrals.
7. Look For Moments When Clients Are Happiest
Look for moments when clients are feeling most satisfied and fulfilled by your services. This could be after they’ve completed a project or received an award for their work with your help.
These moments of happiness and success can be the perfect time to ask for referrals because your clients will be feeling good about their experience with you and may be more likely to give you a referral.
8. Never Ask For A Referral By Email, Do It On The Phone
Asking for referrals through email may seem like an easy way to get the word out about your business, but it often comes across as impersonal and can be easily missed or ignored.
Instead of sending a generic email, take the time to reach out to your clients by phone or in-person to make the request. This ensures that they know how important their referrals are and will make them more likely to respond positively.
How To Ask For Referrals When The Time Is Right
Once you get set up with a few simple processes and strategies in place, asking for referrals becomes much easier.
Here are our top tips for making the ask:
1. Setting A Frame
Before you start asking for referrals, make sure you set the frame. This means letting your clients know why you’re asking for referrals and what kind of person or professional would be best suited for your services.
Explain how their referrals will help your business grow and why it’s important to reach out to these individuals. This will help your clients understand why their referrals matter and encourage them to make the referral.
2. Remembering The Client Of The Positive Experience They Had With You
Reminding your clients of the positive experience they had with you can be a great way to get them excited about referring others. Show gratitude for their loyalty and express how much you appreciate the amazing work they’ve done.
Let them know that their referrals will help to spread the word about your services and how much you value their input. This can be a great way to let your clients know how important they are to your business and encourage them to refer others.
3.“Do You Know Anyone Who Would Be Interested In A Connection With Us?”
Once you’ve set the frame and reminded your clients of their positive experience with you, it’s time to make “the ask.” Ask a straightforward question such as “Do you know anyone who would be interested in a connection with us?”
This lets your clients know that you’re looking to make new connections and encourages them to think of potential referrals right away.
4. “Do You Mind Sharing Their Name With Us?”
After asking for referrals, make sure to follow up by asking if they would be willing to share the names of their referrals with you. This will ensure that your clients feel comfortable providing you with their contacts and also shows that you’re serious about reaching out to potential new clients.
Helping Agencies Reach 8 Figures In Annualized Revenue
Understanding how to ask for referrals can be a daunting task but once you understand the art of the ask, it can be a great way to grow your business.
By utilizing these strategies, you can move from a small agency to an 8-figure business in no time. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be well on your way to success!
If you need help achieving 8 figures in annualized revenue, our team at 8 Figure Agency is here to help. We specialize in helping agencies reach their goals and expand their business.
