In order to succeed in anything, you must try to identify the
smallest number of actions that produce the biggest benefits
in business, this means capitalising on your greatest asset
your existing customers.
Everyone knows that referrals are the best form of advertising;
a customer referred by a friend is already half-sold. You know
yourself, if you're new to an area and looking for a plumber,
doctor or hairdresser, you ask your neighbours. These people
have done all the groundwork for you; they've rung around for
the best prices, they've made appointments and had work done
and they must have been happy with the results, mustn't they,
otherwise they wouldn't be recommending the business?
We humans are funny little critters - we all love to be asked for
our advice so we enjoy referring others to those businesses
we like.
The best way to harness this team of willing advertisers, is to
simply ask them for their help, so here are five simple ways
you can begin obtaining customer referrals for your business:
1. Offer outrageous service and quality products so your
customers will want to recommend you.
2. Explain that you pride yourself on maintaining high
standards and that your business depends on referrals for the
bulk of its business.
3. Ask to be recommended e.g. "Once I've done a great job
for you, I hope youll tell all your friends/colleagues." Smile as
you say this, if speaking face to face with customers. Include
this as a P.S. in written communication.
4. Ask specifically if your happy customer will write to
others recommending your business. Say something like, "I
promise not to be upset if you use words like fantastic or
outstanding!"
5. Thank those who do send you referrals; it can be a note
or a small gift (perhaps a discount voucher, a gift voucher or
tickets to a movie for offline customers).
Never be afraid to ask for help from your satisfied customers
try these methods and watch your referrals increase.
About the Author
Jennifer Stewart offers professional writing services to clients
from around the globe. Visit http://www.write101.com for your
FREE online writing course. Subscribe to The Write Way and
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