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Posts Tagged ‘word of mouth marketing’

Habits of Highly Effective Companies - Network for Referrals

Sunday, May 17th, 2009

It takes a lot of time and energy to build a business from the ground up, especially if you do it on your own, this is why it helps to have a good referral network. Do not think of yourself as out there alone, why not think of some ways to create a network of people that you would prefer to refer business to then they, will be happy to refer to your company as well.

Building a profitable referral network should begin with the group of people that you know already and if you can get them to understand the product you offer, then they can refer others to you who are seeking out what you have to offer. Once you have a solid network in place, you won’t have to generate new clients via cold calls any longer, your leads will come through your network. Once you have spoken to groups of people directly around you, your clients and colleagues or other professional venues. When people are instructed on your product, then they will be able to direct others towards you accordingly.

When you start building your referral network you should decide what incentive you will offer to people who refer you new clients. To begin with, you may want to offer newcomers to your network a small referral fee each time that they refer business your way. Many sales people are motivated by the commission check that they receive, offering an incentive will motivate people to refer you more business more often. A powerful referral network will do almost all of your marketing for you.

Don’t be nervous to ask. If a client is satisfied with your product and the service they have received from you then they are far more likely to be pleased that they can do something for you. If there is a referral fee or type of incentive at the end of it, then they will be even more willing to assist you. If you want to grow your business and develop a powerful network then you have to be proactive. nstead of waiting for a referral to you, just get out there and ask for them, most people will lend a hand, especially when that help is reciprocated in some way.

I have found that whenever I face a strange situation, such as asking for referrals, it helps if I write out what I want to say and then practice saying it aloud until it sits comfortably with me. When people see that you are comfortable in asking for their help then they are often more than willing to give it and this is a good way of building up a powerful referral network.

If a client compliments you on your product or service then ask them for a referral, this is the best time to do so. Your network will be able to refer people to you with ease if they fully understand your product and/or service. If you continue in this way then you will soon have a powerful referral network that will help you to grow your business.