For small business owners, one major source of generating business can be through word of mouth – recommendations from friends, family, past clients, fellow vendors, and community members. So, how can we go about receiving referrals from our current or past clients? Today, we’re sharing a few of our favorite tips for asking for referrals – to keep your business growing and moving forward!

How to Get Referrals from Your Current or Former Clients

1. Offer a Client Experience Survey. Send your current or past clients a Client Experience Survey — not only to ask about their experience while working with you, but to ask for a referral. This is a helpful way to better understand your client experience, what went well and what can be improved upon, and to connect with new clients, too.
2. Follow up with past clients. Follow up with your past clients a few weeks or a few months after your experience has ended. In addition to reconnecting with your past clients and providing a well-rounded, elevated client experience — you can use your reconnection as an opportunity to let your past clients know you’d truly appreciate their help in keeping your small business going and growing through a referral.
3. Be honest. Most importantly, be open and honest with past clients. All small business owners know, getting new business can be really challenging — especially for new business owners or seasonal business owners. Be open and honest — as well as gracious — toward clients. Set expectations for what will happen should they provide a referral (“I’ll reach out to your friend just once, to share about our services!”) as some clients may be fearful that they’re burdening their friend or family member. Openness and honesty can go a long way!

Since 2014, With Grace and Gold has provided brand and web design for creative small business owners. Hire With Grace and Gold or shop With Grace and Gold’s pre-made designs and Showit website templates – and come away with an elevated brand and web design for your small business!