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?
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.
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.
Location: I live in the beautiful Cambridge (Town of Trees) in New Zealand.
Posts: 165
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.
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.
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.
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.
Referral Bonuses
Monique Terrell, CEO
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