Referral Marketing Tip: Follow Your Money Trail

How many busiensses would you say you've supported over the years by being a loyal customer? Why, you may have been solely responsible for the new wing your veterinarian added to her office last year, just from the money you've invested in your pet's care over the last 15 years. For some businesses, not only were you a customer - you may have recommended them to other customers as well.

When was the last time those businesses returned the favor and helped your business succeed? Have you ever asked them to do anything? As a matter of fact, just this past week, I took a copy of my book, The 29% Solution, to my hairdresser and asked if I could contribute a copy of the book to their reading material. I told them I have been a loyal customer for several years and wondered if they could help me get some exposure. Guess what they said? "Sure, we'd be glad to help!"

Referral Marketing Tip:

Never be afraid to ask for others to support your business. Scan your checkbook for local businesses that you have paid ... hairstylist, veternarian, dentist, lawn care service, dry cleaners, day care, grocery store, pet resort, etc. Think of a way that they could help your business. Maybe they'll let you but brochures in their waiting room, give you ad space for free in their newsletter, place your business cards on their counter, allow you to write an article for their newsletter, etc.
Then, all you need to do is ASK.

Referral Marketing Tip: Set Giving Goals

Most entreprenuers set goals for their business. Some set revenue goals, growth goals, marketing goals, performance goals, sales goals, etc. A very small percentage of entreprenuers actually take the time to write down their goals. And if they write their goals down, they seldom look at them again until the year comes to a close.

Referral markeing tip:

Take the time to set GIVING GOALS for yourself and your business. Success in referral marketing is based on how much you give to your network. How many referrals are you planning to give to your referral partners? How many connections will you make on behalf of others? What will you give in return to those who refer you? How much of your time will you give to networking? How much money will you generate for the people in your networking group? You get the idea.

When you focus on giving to your network, your network will repay you well.