How Often Do You Give Referrals vs. Get Referrals?

I believe getting referrals is a "giver's gain" philosophy. The more referrals I give the more I will get. There is a technique for this however. I always let the company I refer know whom I referred to them. This creates a kind of "emotional debt" and that company will more likely refer clients to me because they know I have been referring to them. It's a win win for both and my entire business is word of mouth because of this type of networking system I have in place.

Referrals are earned, not owed. Keep doing what you do to the best of your abilities and the referrals will happen.  The more you are involved in your community, the more your clients will see you as a local resource.  Don't be shy to refer a proven business for  goods or services when asked.  Always remember those who have referred clients to you and return the favor when ever possible.

I give referrals to others when I have met them or I found I have a connection and trust. I love referring local I just don't want my brand and name attached to someone/business that is not trust worthy just to give the referral. My business is largely based on referrals and 75% of my clientelle was from referrals. I don't think there really is a "fix" per say. I am also not ashamed to say to my customers, if you're happy with my services the best compliment you can give me and my business is a referral, if you're not happy please tell me so that I can rectify it. Best of luck Patrick and to much success!

I am constantly wanting to give referrals for other associates that I have in my network. I believe it will pay dividends down the road. That being said, ensure that your referral does not trip you up. What I mean is, don't refer someone unless you are sure they can deliver, or that you provide a caveat for you referral with, "not sure they can help, but check them out". 

Since referrals are huge part of my business...I track all referrals and who they came from and try to reciprocate every opportunity that I get.

I enjoy giving referrals, helping each other always benefits everyone in community, not just our customers.

As you network more, you learn to be circumspect about giving out referrals. Give out referrals only after giving them opportunities to interact with you more. I have an advantage - I own and run several networking groups - so people have plenty of opportunity to show and demonstrate reliability (e.g. showing up on time, showing up with suggestions and referrals that come through etc.). Always pay attention to the 80-20 rule : not to be rude but to be honest - 80 percent of the people out there probably contribute less than 20 percent of the real business leads. It is not because they are bad people - they are just as human as us - they are just not at the point where they feel that they have something to offer OR they are just not very reliable yet.

Hello Patrick!

You know this is very true! I give out referrals almost everyday. I really try and find people who are willing to do the same thing for me. If they are not eventually I stop giving them referrals. I feel like if they really care and want to get more referrals from me then they need to do something for me in return.

Please note I'm not talking about I send one referral in the general direction every blue moon or so. I work with a lot f people and somebody is always looking for something.

I don't know if that really helps or not, but I personally feel like it is good to keep giving referrals just change who they go to until somebody kicks a few in your direction.

Best wishes

Michael

Referrals allow me to properly promote another business that would be the best fit for the person in need. I can only offer such referrals if I have listened attentively to the one searching for the product or service. I ask clarifying questions to better understand those needs.  I confidently give referrals as often as I can!  By supporting those searching for a product or service, I also support those in business.  It's a WIN-WIN! That's what networking is all about! Let's build our community together!