Hard to Toot Your Business Horn?

Do you think just because you provide incredible service, low prices and/or quality products, customers will think about referring your business to friends and family? Some business owners have even told me they hate asking their customers for referrals. Even if the customer is happy!

People sometimes confuse getting business through word-of-mouth and having an active customer referral plan in place to grow their business. What's the difference? The big difference is that word-of-mouth is passive; the art of getting referrals is proactive.

If you're like most people, you will do anything rather than ask. But getting a steady stream of customer referrals must be a part of your marketing plan. You need to actively seek out referrals. And the best place to start is with your best customers.

If you hate the thought of being face to face with them when you ask, there are ways to get referrals without having to stand there shuffling your feet as you stammer, "Do you know someone who could use my product and/or service?"

Following are 4 Ways to Get Others to Toot for You.

1. Contact businesses that sell services or products that compliment yours. For example, if you own a hair salon, speak with the owner of a beauty supply or drug store and offer them a fee for any referral sent to you from their business. Ask if you can put professional looking brochures or cards for them to distribute so you can track the source. And offer to do the same for them!

2. Contact the executive director of a local, state or national charity, or head of a church, PTA, Boy or Girl Scouts troop. Offer that for every referral sent to you from the organization, you will donate a percentage of the sale to them. Be creative. This makes a great PR article for your local newspaper, too!

3. Carry a box of thank you cards with your printed company and contact information to immediately give to those who provide an exceptional product or service. Too often they only hear complaints and they'll definitely remember your gratitude.

4. Lastly, on every piece of correspondence you send (e.g., letter, invoice or note), write a promise of first-class service. Let people know you value them as customers. Ask them to refer their friends and family. Tell them you want to build and maintain their relationships.

By following these simple steps, you'll build excellent customer relations and watch your business grow as others "toot your horn."