Small Business Marketing: How to Get More Referrals for your Small Business

Any small business marketing effort relies on referrals to grow. But I find many small business marketing folks are reluctant to ask for referrals. Here's one surefire way to ask for, and get, more referrals for your small business...

The next time you are one-on-one with a networking contact, or introducing yourself in front of a group of colleagues, say the following: "I am looking for..." and then define the type of company and situation that makes for an ideal client.

For example, I typically say "I am looking for growing companies with between 10-100 employees who need a marketing plan".

When you state upfront to your audience, exactly what you are "looking for", you do two things. First, you define an ideal client for your audience. And second, you subtly ask for a referral. The nice thing about this approach is that you aren't directly asking for a referral, but instead, you're indirectly asking your audience to keep on the lookout for this kind of ideal client.

If you use this approach in the next 10 conversations you have, I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at what referrals start coming your way.

Like what you read here? Subscribe to my e-newsletter Marketing Tips & Tools.