Referrals are the lifeblood of a thriving business—especially in a group like EAGA, where we actively support each other’s growth. Are you maximizing your referral potential? Whether you’re new to the group or have been networking for years, here are some key strategies to keep your referral pipeline strong.
1. Be Specific About What You Need
Your fellow EAGA members want to send you referrals—but they can’t help if they don’t know exactly what to look for. Be clear about your ideal client. Instead of saying, “I’m looking for businesses that need insurance,” try, “I’d love an introduction to small business owners with 2-50 employees who need help navigating health benefits.” Specificity leads to better referrals!
2. Make Referring You Easy
If people have to think too hard about how to refer you, they won’t. Provide simple, shareable language they can use. A quick blurb, a link to your website, or even a short email template they can copy and paste makes it effortless for them to connect you with the right people.
3. Give More to Get More
The best way to get referrals? Give them. When you actively introduce your connections to fellow members, they’ll naturally return the favor. Keep an ear out for opportunities to refer others in EAGA, and you’ll find that generosity always comes back around.
4. Follow Up Like a Pro
When you receive a referral, act fast! A quick follow-up shows professionalism and keeps the momentum going. Thank the person who referred you and update them on the outcome. A simple, “Thanks for the intro to Sarah! We had a great conversation, and I’ll be helping her with coverage options next week,” reinforces their effort and encourages them to send more business your way.
5. Stay Top of Mind
Referrals happen when you’re remembered. Keep your presence strong by engaging with your EAGA network regularly—attend meetings, share updates on your business, and schedule Make-A-Friend meetings. A simple check-in message or social media interaction can keep you fresh in someone’s mind when a referral opportunity arises.
6. Show Appreciation
A thank-you goes a long way. Whether it’s a quick email, a handwritten note, or a small gift for a particularly valuable referral, showing gratitude encourages people to keep sending business your way. And don’t forget to give public shout-outs at meetings—it reinforces a culture of generosity in the group.
Final Thought: Make Referrals a Habit
The key to consistent referrals isn’t luck—it’s strategy. By clearly communicating what you need, making it easy for others to refer you, and being generous with your own connections, you’ll build a strong referral network that keeps your business growing.
Let’s put these strategies into action and make our connections and EAGA even stronger!
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