Ever listen closely to the Paul Simon song “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover”? As I was writing about how to get more referrals, I found myself thinking about that catchy refrain. The lyrics are a humorous breakup song about a friend offering creative, simple ways to end a romantic relationship. The chorus suggests that ending a relationship doesn’t have to be complicated.
The most iconic part of the song lists playful suggestions like:
- “You just slip out the back, Jack…”
- “…make a new plan, Stan…”
- “…don’t need to be coy, Roy…”
These lines are repeated with that catchy refrain about having “50 ways” to leave someone, emphasizing the idea of finding a way that works for you.
11 Ways to Get More Referrals and Grow Your Business
1. Know What a Referral Is
A referral is different from a contact (a person’s name), a lead (a person that has a relationship with the referrer), and an introduction (a connection to someone through a third party for any reason). A referral is an introduction to a buyer who wants to potentially hire you. Simple as that. You may have your own version of these terms. The point is to be clear about what you’re asking for so others understand and can follow through.
2. Focus on Centers of Influence (COI)
Centers of Influence (COI) are professionals who can naturally refer you because you serve the same type of clients (target market) and don’t compete.
3. Double Opt-In
Discuss and get permission from both parties before introducing them.
4. Deliver Value First
Solve a problem, share an insight, invite to an event, or make an introduction.
5. Have a Clear Target Market
When people know exactly who you help and how you help, they’re more likely to refer you. Especially when you’re specific about your request.
6. Give Referrals
Devote time to generating referrals and valuable introductions for your centers of influence, clients, and prospects if appropriate.
7. Show Gratitude
Say thank you, give a referral right back, get a gift, or provide a referral fee.
8. Don’t Be a Nightmare
Stay responsive, flexible, collaborative, and follow through quickly. Make it easy and enjoyable for others to refer you. Stay responsive, flexible, collaborative, and follow through quickly. Make it easy to refer you!
9. Create a Great Experience
Make the buying journey smooth, respectful, and enjoyable.
10. Offer Language
Provide “Here’s a quick way to introduce me…” goes a long way.
11. Just Ask…The Right Way
“Would you be open to discussing how WE might refer each other more business?” Or, “Would you be open to discussing how WE might be resources for one another?” See how the focus is on WE, not just YOU? Much easier to ask, isn’t it?
Why Being Referable Matters
If you want to get more referrals consistently, you must become easy to refer and easy to work with.
Being referable isn’t just about business networking skills. It’s about being easy to work with, collaborative, and relationship-focused. When you prioritize communication and relationship building, referrals naturally follow.
Just make a new plan, Stan.
What Is Your Favorite Referral Strategy for Generating More Business Referrals?🥊
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