Asking for Referrals
Monday, August 07, 2006
What's the best way to ask for referrals? Some wait for the homeowner to bring it up. However, they might have too much on their minds and it could be easily forgotten. Make sure to ask them if they would mind being a reference: you could ask, "Would you feel comfortable if I gave out your phone number as a reference?" Or, "Would you mind if I use you as a business reference?" 9 times out of 10, they'll say yes. And if they say no, it might be a good idea to follow up with, "How about if I only give them your email address?" Some simply prefer to communicate by email and will agree to help you out.
Another great tool to have on hand is a written letter of reference or a testimonial. Ask if your client wouldn't mind typing something up or emailing a recommendation out to you. It can be risky that they'll take the time to do it, however, so another approach might even be simpler - write it for them. You can put your own personal take on the project and how it turned out. You can give it to them to review and tell them they have the option to change or remove any portion they don't agree with.
It's a great way to get your referral without having to take up too much of your client's time. Need job leads between referrals? Register with ConstructionDeal.com today.
