When we ask people what their growth strategy is, we hear a litany of response. Here are some variations of what we often hear.
- We’re focusing on advertising on google.
- Our socials, we are really trying to engage with people and meet them there with a resource.
- We run print advertising campaigns for brand awareness and to gain new customers.
- Our website is top-notch and and we have focused on building a great site to help our customers and potential customers.
- Mailers, Billboards, Offers, etc…
These are all good things and we think that you must be doing a variation of all the above. Most vibrant businesses understand the value of all the above. But, beyond the above the best businesses the thriving ones go beyond the above list and know the best way to grow is to take care of their own. The best and most affordable way to convert new clients is through existing ones. That’s right we’re talking about referrals.
Do you have a referral program in place?
The center of your business world must be your customers and taking care of them and thoughtfully engaging them to garner referrals is the best way to grow.
Example: We work with a dental practice that has a quarterly referral program that’s top-notch. They give away a prize worth hundreds of dollars every quarter in exchange for new “leads”. Each referral they receive from a current patient gives the current patient an entry into the quarterly referral contest, WOW!
Do you have something like this?
Having a great referral program only works if your clients trust you, like you and feel comfortable giving you the names of their friends, and family.
The first step in a great referral program is to be exceptional at what you’re doing and take care of people. This builds trust and Loyalty.
The second step is to have a system in place where you ask for the referral. You must have the right vehicle for getting these new leads. Don’t be afraid to ask.
The third step is to acknowledge a referral given with a gift, kind word, something. There must be something in it for them.
In the most competitive business climate we’ve seen you must be doing all of the above and focus on growing and leveraging the people you’re already taking care of. Referrals are the most affordable way to grow and build long-lasting relationships.
One way we help our customers is by implementing referral strategies. Do you need help? Don’t be afraid to ask us for help.