Coaching Referrals are the lifeblood of any coaching practice and learning how to get more will give you an advantage! Referrals are, in a sense, pre-sold by someone who thinks highly of your services and is delighted to share you with others. Here are a few ways to gain more coaching referrals:
Provide Excellent Service
Excellent service leads to happy clients! Happy clients will be inspired and motivated to refer you to others who need your help. Frequently surveying those you have supported can lead to the highest possible quality and satisfaction. More referrals are naturally given when you exceed your clients’ expectations.
Ask for Them
At the end of every coaching package or assignment is the perfect time to ask for a referral! A satisfied client who has solved their challenges with your help will be more than happy to write a referral. To make it easier, ask them to address certain parts of your program that you know were especially rewarding.
When asking for coaching referrals, be specific about the content you want highlighted.
Keep in Touch
“The fortune is in the follow-up” is a true statement! Keeping in touch with your past clients and future prospects is key to gaining more coaching referrals. A regular newsletter, email updates and occasional check-ins can keep you and your services top-of-mind and lead to more recommendations.
Be Social
Social media is a great way to remain visible to your clients. Choose one or two platforms and focus on using them to educate and engage before, during or after any coaching experience. Memes, short video, infographics and other valuable content can keep your ideal clients and potentials informed. Building your online presence can create top of mind awareness an lead to more coaching referrals.
Develop Incentives
Rewarding those who refer you to others is a great way to incentivize them to refer you even more! Incentives for coaching referrals can include discounted or free sessions or a referral fee when services are sold. Creating a formal referral program that outlines benefits and rewards can increase your opportunities.
Pro Partnerships
Other professionals in your network, like counselors and therapists, can make great referral partners. Develop relationships with those whom you may provide referrals TO, and they will likely provide coaching referrals in return. Conferences and conventions can put you in the sphere of other professionals in complementary industries. Stay in your lane and share business that’s better suited to others!
Develop referral partnerships with other professionals.
Networking
Networking can provide new connections and create a strong presence in your community. YOU are your brand and allowing people to see you out and about in the marketplace will increase your brand recognition. Get involved in community service, volunteer to be a non-profit board member, or become an advocate for an organization and build a wider reputation in your local area. Making new connections is critical to building your brand and will ultimately lead to more referrals.
In closing, there are lots of ways to increase your coaching referrals. It takes time and trying different things to develop your personal strategy that will serve you over and over again!
To learn more, check out The Coach Business Guide: The Path to Launch and Grow your Coaching Practice, Chapter 24 – Referrals and Testimonials.
