I am very fortunate to have a great referral system from previous clients. I am curious..how do you ask for referrals? Do you ask right away or after the close?
I have seen one method deserving of mention! I have seen a Buyers Agency Agreement that has a written contingency that the buyers must supply three names of potential buyers or sellers within 90 days of a successful close:)
Please share your method of asking for referrals!
I personally like the puppy dogs method .... right to the point. Actually, I believe the method varies from client to client depending on their personality.
Sean Allen
I have a few great letters that kindly ask " if you know anyone buying or selling will you give them my card?" I then include several cards with the letter. I have wonderful response with it and my clients say they keep my cards in their wallet just in case.
Kristen Charette
Coldwell Banker Wright Realty
Conway NH
You can provide buyers with a brief follow-up customer service survey, and at the bottom, you can ask for referrals as well as a testimonial. Since it is included in a survey, it's not as uncomfortable as asking your clients directly. If all else fails, send the puppy.
Jennifer Allan has a great blog on here about working your SOI. Check out her blog post about asking for referrals.
http://activerain.com/blogsview/79075/What-s-the-Best
If you're already getting some great referrals, whatever you're doing, you're doing it right! I track where my business comes from and I've seen a gradual shift from Open Houses and Mailings, to SOI. I assume I'm doing something right by just staying in contact and fostering relationships.
Wow that is pretty....Rude i think, to write it right in the buyer's agency. I think that is pretty sad actually.
I mean i don't ask for referrals myself simply because i do not need to. Each one of my clients becomes a new friend to me no matter what age they are. I am 34 yrs old myself and i have great new friends that are all ages 21-75 yrs and i do such a good job that i do not need to ask if they no someone they referrals them to me it is that simple. I have read tons of marketing books and they all say " you have to ask for referrals or you will not get them" Is that true? NO i am living proof and it is so simple "Treat People The Way You Want To Be Treated" i learned this from my parents along time ago and guess what.... it works. Maybe more people (Realtors) should try to actualy help people rather than just do there job.
And to keep with your photo theme
Sean-Who could ever argue a puppies method!!?!? I think there is much to be learned from that:)
Kristin- Sounds like your clients really appreciate your service!
Max-Good point! Send in the secret weapon!
Jennifer -Thanks I will check it out
Joe No snowballs here...I could throw a shrimp:)
Brian The agent that used the contingency for referrals did it as an ice breaker...I saw him present it and it was more comical than anything else...I don't think anyone has been offended by it. But interesting perspective. Love the picture!!!!
Hi Cherimie,
Key hand over is the best time to ask for referrals. At this point, you have proven yourself, and your clients are in good mood.
Keeping in touch with past clients is the key.
Catherine
Here is what I have done in the past.... After closing or a few days before closing (depends on the transaction) I solcit a testimonial with a letter that has a line in it that says "Who do you know that might be looking to buy or sell in the next 6 months-year?" Asking do they know anyone will result in the same answer, NO! Asking who they know will have them thinking who they can refer to you. Cherimie, your professionalism and work ethic will continue to provide you with repeat referrals for a lifetime!
Good questions. Love the puppy begging! Maybe I should bring my puppy with me to beg. She has the sweetest eyes that I can never say no to!
I am just finishing up a working by referral program called the 100 Days to Greatness. Check out the Brian Buffini group or his website www.brianbuffini.com . I have been flooded with referrals since I started this program. One day alone brough in 5 referrals! Others in my office are talking about a down market, I just called my old assistant from a previous job to say that I want to hire her to work for me this year because I am getting so many wonderful leads. Check it out and message me if you have any questions.
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