“My friend needs your service so I gave them your card, they said they would call you.”
Have you ever heard that one before? What are the chances you receive that call…10%?…5%? Maybe even closer to 1%??
The infamous “gave them your card” referral is better than a poke in the eye, but not one of the best types of business referrals.
Then there’s the “My friend needs your service, I’ll cc you on an email so the two of you can connect.”
That one’s better, and via email you can absolutely correspond with a prospective client to set up a meeting or phone call to do business, but there is still a better way.
“My friend needs your service, here is their cell number. I asked what time you should call them, and they said they’d be free at 4pm today, so they’re expecting your call.”
Now we’re talking! This is a very effective way to connect two individuals. The first party is expecting the call, and the second party can show the first proof of professionalism by calling at the designated time. If the second party cannot call at that exact time, a polite text to suggest a different time is appropriate.
Bonus referral type…
“My friend needs your service, so I invited them to play golf with us this Saturday.”
It has been said that some of the biggest deals are made on the golf course, so it might be time to get a club set, some plaid shorts, and invest in some private lessons! Maybe that’s what it takes to get more business referrals!