How to ask for client referrals, without feeling awkward
Written by: Sapphire Li, BA
Communications specialist, 8+ years writing and copywriting for companiesI'm gonna cut to the chase, I need a big favor
Written by: Sapphire Li, BA
Communications specialist, 8+ years writing and copywriting for companies1. Review their LinkedIn profile and comment about a detail you came across to open the conversation.
2. Mention the biggest way, in simple, non-salesy terms, how you can help the Linkedin contact they know. Keep in mind you're not selling your services to them, just asking them for an intro. A sales pitch could make them worry you would lay it on thick with their contact and they could be more hesitant to introduce you.
3. Ask for an intro by offering a prewritten message they can pass along to make it easy for them. This also gives you some control over what they say about you.
4. Mention which networks you're a part of and let them know you're willing to return the favor.
1. Comment about something they did recently to open the conversation.
2. Ask them if they know anyone who may be interested in achieving an important result your services deliver, without sounding too salesy. You don't have to hard pitch someone you already know and they wouldn't want you to hard pitch their contact either.
3. Share a prewritten message they can pass along to make it easier for them to refer you. This also gives you some control over how your services are presented.
4. Express your thanks ahead of time.
5. Let them know you're open to returning the favor.
1. Share an update about your work and briefly describe what you're doing now without sounding too salesy.
2. Ask if your contact knows anyone who's looking to achieve an important result your services help with.
3. Share a prewritten message they can pass along to make it easier for them to refer you.
4. Express thanks to let them know you appreciate their help.
1. Since you're writing to a friend, a casual greeting works fine.
2. Simply ask if they can do you a favor.
3. Mention which of their contacts you'd like to connect with and briefly explain how you can help them. Share a prewritten message they can pass along to make it easier for them to introduce you.
4. Express your thanks and offer to treat your friend to something they like.
Proven templates for tough situations and requests. Say what you mean. Sound refreshingly honest and human.
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