The best clients come from referrals. They arrive pre-sold, convert faster, stay longer, and refer others. Yet most coaches leave referrals to chance instead of building systems.
Why Referrals Work So Well
- Trust transfer - They trust the person who referred them
- Pre-qualified - The referrer already screened them
- Similar profile - Birds of a feather flock together
- Lower acquisition cost - No ad spend required
The Referral System
Deliver Exceptional Results
Referrals start with results. Clients refer when they're genuinely transformed, not merely satisfied. Focus on outcomes that clients can't help but talk about.
Ask at the Right Time
The best moments to ask for referrals:
- After a breakthrough session
- When they achieve a major goal
- At the end of a successful engagement
- When they spontaneously praise your work
Make It Easy
Don't just ask "Know anyone who might benefit?" Instead:
- Be specific: "Do you know other [executives/entrepreneurs/etc.] dealing with [specific problem]?"
- Provide language they can use to introduce you
- Offer to send them information to forward
- Make warm introductions painless
Acknowledge and Thank
When referrals come in:
- Thank the referrer immediately
- Keep them updated (appropriately) on the outcome
- Consider a referral bonus or gift
- Reciprocate when you can
Beyond Client Referrals
Build referral relationships with:
- Therapists and counselors (different scope of work)
- Other coaches in different niches
- HR professionals and consultants
- Industry professionals who serve your target market
Track Your Referrals
In Stronghold, mark how each lead found you. Over time, you'll see which clients and partners send the most referrals—and can nurture those relationships accordingly.