Every small-business owner knows that one way to inexpensively build a client base is to get referrals from satisfied clients. But how do you induce existing clients to refer new ones to you?
| 19% - Percentage of smallbusinesses that expect to make capital outlays in the next three to six month |
You should just ask. Business and marketing consultant Pinny Cohen in Fairlawn, N.J., points out that the people his clients refer tend to "match that client in outlook and perspective, so when a good client refers people, they are usually good clients. Make sure the person you're asking a referral from is your all-star client."
Cohen himself focuses on word-of-mouth referrals to help keep costs down. "My hourly rate has gone up over the years, but any one of my clients can refer another client to me, and I offer that new client the same grandfathered hourly rate as the referring client gets," he says. "Instead of spending on advertising--and I don't spend a penny--I'd rather pass on the savings to the customer."
Some firms reward both the existing and the new customer. VoicePulse, a Voice over Internet protocol service provider, offers existing customers the opportunity to send an e-mail to their contacts with a referral code. If the referred person signs up for service, both customers get a credit to theiraccounts.
Other small-business owners offer gift certificates for items clients would enjoy--think house cleaning services, chocolates, flowers, spa days, theater tickets and the like.
Finally, don't forget one old-school incentive: a straightforward thank you.
"It sounds simple, but a handwritten thank you goes a long way," says Alexandra Mayzler, owner of Thinking Caps Tutoring in New York. "Incentive programs, especially in service industries, aren't always appropriate, and genuine thanks go a long way."
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