You get none of the referrals you don’t ask for…. read that again. Actually, let’s dive a little deeper because really understanding how to get referrals is an essential foundation of every business.
If you want to grow a referral-based business that takes you from hustle to happy, then you have to understand that it requires you asking for what you want.
It doesn’t just happen. It’s easy to not send referrals when you’re busy in your own business and someone hasn’t given you a “trigger” to think of them when a potential referral comes up.
And I know asking for referrals can be intimidating, but that’s why, at MOMpire, we focus so hard on relationships. When you build authentic referral partners in business, you will not only bring in more business, you will put the JOY back into it as well.
Here is the foundation of how to get referrals for your business:
Step 1: Establish and nurture relationships with people you like who have access to a client base you’re looking for (could be their clients, or professional or personal network)
I’m talking about referral partners. There’s nothing better than walking through this business journey with people by your side that believe in what you do. They don’t only believe in it, they shout it from the rooftops…and send your ideal clients your way.
Step 2: Tell them how you could provide value to that potential client base
It’s important that your referral partners know exactly what you do and how you do it. And even more importantly….who your ideal client is. Take the time to identify who you help and how you help them so that you can clearly community this to your referral partners.
Step 3: Give them an easy process to refer people over so you actually get the leads
This may look different for everyone. If you don’t know how you collect potential client information, how will your referral partners know how to? Your client experience starts at the VERY beginning of lead capture. If you have a systemized way to collect information (a contact form, questionnaire, booking link, etc), your referral partners can send their referrals to you simply and professionally.
Step 4: Show gratitude or reciprocate
Nurture, nurture, nurture. MOMpire mamas are not in the business of “take, take, and more take.” You can show a little appreciation by sending a “coffee on me” gift card, a note and small gift in the mail, or reciprocate the referral by sending them their ideal clients when the timing is right.
Nurturing your current referral partners is more important than focusing on gaining more.
Step 5: Repeat the cycle
This is why being a part of a community like MOMpire helps mamas like you THRIVE in business. Coffee chats are constantly taking place. Connections are forming every single day. And true and authentic referral partners are being built and cultivated. Repeat this cycle, and your business will not only be sustainable…but JOY-FILLED!
Building a JOY-FILLED Business
Can you think of anything more joy-filled and less “hustle-y” than this process? Connecting with other mamas (which ALL OF US NEED), hanging out with amazing and ambitious women who totally get us, and having others send business your way?!
It’s so simple that most people skip networking and go for all the gimmicks. But, networking remains the number one way to build a successful and profitable business. And truthfully… it’s the most liberating way to grow your MOMpire…and I can’t wait to see you kick ass, mama.
