Client referrals are one of the most powerful ways to generate new business, but many businesses don’t have effective referral programs in place. A client referral program encourages current clients to recommend your services to their connections, which brings more prospects to your doorstep. A well-managed program can become one of your biggest lead-generation avenues. Here are some tips to help you create one.
Build Your Brand
First and foremost, you’ll need a brand before you can start building out your client referral program. No matter the size of your company, it’s important to develop the story you want to tell. A strong brand also allows for open communication between internal stakeholders about what success looks like for your business. To attract a client's attention and acquire their trust, you must have a strong brand. If your agency has a positive image, they will be more willing to promote it.
Deliver a Great Customer Experience
Before you start your program, you must be sure that your customer experience is a positive one. Ask yourself whether your clients are wowed by your brand and services. If not, then you need to examine why that’s so. Perhaps it’s something as simple as an outdated website or an irritating follow-up process after someone makes a purchase. Look at ways you can enhance your experience and implement solutions.
Set Up a Client Referral Program
Consider the following factors when developing a referral process that will encourage your current clients to refer your agency to new clients.
- Create a Successful Incentive System – Encourage client referrals with small denomination gift cards or a charitable donation to a community-related organization
- Make it Simple — Create an easy-to-use and efficient incentives system so that clients can easily refer to you and your agency
- Utilize Technology – Automate and optimize the referral process so requests go through quickly. Software solutions from networks like AAI can help speed this process up
- Identify Profitable Clients - You should determine which clients are the most profitable and tap into their network. AAI's proprietary dashboard allows you to easily identify this segment of clients.
At AAI, we support and train insurance agents, helping them set up a successful referral program for their business. Contact us today to learn more!