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

Word of mouth marketing works.

In fact, referrals are often one of the key factors that influence someone to work with you. For us, we represent around 90-95% of new business that comes from referrals.

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

So having a referral marketing plan helps ensure that enthusiastic 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 be awkward or even aggressive.

But when you believe in the value of what you offer, it can feel good that others are 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 can look like this:

“I am excited to be working with you. When our project is finished, I know that you will be delighted with the work we did together. If you are satisfied with our work, would you be willing to share us with others? The business grows.”

You can also mention the incentive you offer for 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 point number 4 below for more details on this.)

2. Request a virtual introduction

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

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

Hello Mark,

I have worked with Mike for three months and he has done a great job updating our accounting. I know you are looking for a qualified accountant, so I thought I’d bring the two of you together.

Mike, meet 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 really valuable having him in my circle. You mentioned you need a good accountant and I thought you could help me.

Henry, this is Mike from Company B. Mike and I went back. He is a true rock star when it comes to accounting. He makes sure our books are balanced at all times.

Here is your contact information. Now reach out and connect!

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

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

3. Ask happy customers

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

Here is an example of such a question:

Subject line: FIRSTNAME, quick question.

I am glad that you are satisfied with our PRODUCT OR SERVICE. I love helping people like you, so knowing that you are excited about the results makes my day. Actually, this is why I was hoping to ask you a favor …

My goal is to help many more people like you. So I was wondering if he knew other people who could use my help. I’d love 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 referral gift

Giving a referral takes time and energy. When it makes it worthwhile, people are more likely to take the time to do it.

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

You can create a referral page on your website. Write an email to send to your clients and connections. Ask the people in your Facebook groups. Let your vendors know that you reward referral rewards. Even put a teaser on the back of your business card to inform others.

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 when asking for referrals can open the door to unlimited growth. We wish you endless referrals!

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