Are you AWAYS asking for referrals?
Thursday, August 23, 2007 at 07:50AM Referrals can be most valuable tool for finding the best talent and the best clients. Most good business I've earned came not from a single RFP or job board candidate, but from a referral that I asked for or was given by someone I previously worked with. It's all part of networking.
It's important to be involved with people that may need your services like professional organizations. But, besides being visible, you need to talk to other attendees and let them know what you do and what interests you have. Make sure to find out what their interests are and what they need too! Many times, you'll need to give a referral FIRST, before someone returns the favor. That's OK!!
Each time you speak with a candidate, let them know what other slots you may be working, even if the skills aren't part of their background. You never know who they each lunch with. Meet as many candidates as you can because you'll build a better relationship that they'll feel more comfortable giving your name to their friends when the opportunity presents itself. And it's the same on the sales side, meet those clients even when they don't need your service and ask, ask and ask again!
Reader Comments (1)
I read your post on ERE this morning and I couldn't agree more. I was taught early on in my career to make something of each call. Asking for a referral during each and every call is easy to do and often results in a new lead to follow up on. Good luck!
Mark