Is asking for a referral such a bad thing?
November 8th, 2006 by Cristina Favreau
I was coaching a client the other day who, as we were going through potential referral-building marketing strategies, felt that she couldn’t implement “asking for referrals”, since she’s shy and it would mean “asking for a favor.” My (silent) gut response was “So what?” I guess my reaction was so strong, because I know I wouldn’t be where I am in my business today had I let that mindset get in my way.
It made me think, “Am I wrong? Is asking for a referral really such a bad thing?“
I’ve decided to keep with my original thought on the subject, that is: Asking for referrals — if done properly — is an important factor in helping professionals in the service industry grow their business.
So how does one go about asking for (or even better, receiving) referrals? I believe in marketing karma — what goes around comes around. I mostly use the “give to receive” method. When networking, I’ll listen to each participant’s 30-second pitch, and ask “Who do I know that needs this product/service?” Being that my credibility and reputation are on the line, I don’t take this approach lightly. If I personally wouldn’t use someone’s product/service, I WON’T refer them. This has lead to very successful and long-term referral partnerships.
Another tactic? If you don’t want to ask for direct referrals, request a meaningful testimonial.
I also like Stephen Canale’s article Do You Ask For Referrals? While directly related to the real estate industry, his suggestions can be used by most anyone in the service industry.
Does asking for referrals work for you? Does it match your personality? If so, how do you go about asking for referrals? If not, why not?
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When networking, I’ll listen to each participant’s 30-second pitch, and ask “Who do I know that needs this product/service?” Being that my credibility and reputation are on the line, I don’t take this approach lightly. If I personally wouldn’t use someone’s product/service, I WON’T refer them. This has lead to very successful and long-term referral partnerships.
I also like Stephen Canale’s article Do You Ask For Referrals? – i like this article too.
A sensitive and very important issue has discussed above,as a student of marketing it will help me in near future.
I always have a hard time asking for referrals, but it's a requirement in this environment.
I naturally get referred.
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.n
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.n
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.n
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.n
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.n
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.n
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.