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Old 09-08-2008
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Company name: Donovan & Associates
 
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Default Referral Bonuses
I was thinking about offering my current clients a referral bonus if they send me a new client. Has anyone done this? If so, how many hours do you offer as a bonus?

Also, how do you word it that they only get the bonus if you secure the client?

Thanks!
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Old 09-08-2008
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I do not publicize my policy on this with my clients or contacts - I want people to make referrals because they believe in the value I add not because they expect to get something. When someone makes a referral that ends up becoming a client, I send a small thank you gift. They are always pleasantly surprised.
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Old 09-08-2008
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I don't advertise a bonus either, but I send a little something as a gift if that person signs on... One of my clients STAYS at Panera, so I might send a gift certificate for 20 bucks or something to show my appreciation.
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Old 09-08-2008
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I have put something about referrals about my website because I would like to reward referrals. I offer discounts for retainer clients or an hour free services for non-retainer clients.
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Heike Miller
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Old 09-09-2008
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I agree with Lori. I believe that that the value I provide for the client should be the main factor. I also give the referring client a gift as my way of saying thanks.
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Old 09-09-2008
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Company name: Awesome Assistant
 
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Location: Roseville, California
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I don't advertise publicly my referral program. I do periodically send a postcard with one line of very small print that says 'Refer a colleague and receive one hour free. Call me for details'. I sometimes verbal tell a client that if they refer someone that signs on, I'll give them an hour of free service. Usually I just let the referral happen naturally then let the referrer know that I'm adding a free hour of service. So far from doing this, I've signed 3 new clients.
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Old 09-09-2008
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I just started my first referral program and I do publicize it on my website an my montly eNewsletter.

I give a Startbucks Gift Card for every referral that signs up for 10 hour retainer or more.
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Monique Terrell, CEO
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Old 09-10-2008
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I like the idea of a gift after the fact...nice touch
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Cheryl Richey
Carte Blanche Assistance, LLC
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Old 10-07-2008
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Company name: Essential Excellence
 
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Default Re: Referral Bonuses
I plan to offer a referral bonus, especially as I start up and try to build my clientel base. I was thinking about offering 2-5 hours at 50% off my normal rate for referrals that result in a new client.
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