How to Get More Referrals from Business Networking
Referrals are the main reason most people join a networking group. Yet in every group, a few members get most of the introductions. The difference is rarely luck.
Make yourself easy to refer
Tell members exactly who you want to meet and what trigger to listen for, such as a business moving premises or a director planning to retire. Vague requests like anyone who needs my services rarely lead anywhere.
Build trust one to one
People only refer those they trust. Spend time with members outside the main meeting. At Pro 5, a round of golf gives you hours with the same three people, which builds that trust quickly.
Look after every referral
Respond quickly, keep the referrer updated and thank them. A member who sees their introduction handled well will happily send the next one.
Choose a group with one seat per profession
When you are the only accountant or the only electrician in the group, every relevant introduction comes to you. Pro 5 keeps one seat per profession in each group for exactly this reason.
What is a referral networking group?
A group of business owners who meet regularly and pass each other introductions to potential clients, usually with one member per profession.
How do I get more referrals from my networking group?
Be specific about who you want to meet, build one to one trust with members and handle every referral quickly and well.