Hi everyone,

I have one client, and we have been working together since November. Recently, he started recommending my services to his peers/colleagues who he believes would benefit from VA services. One of those individuals called me last week and asked for help with a project over the weekend. She wrote me yesterday commending my work and expressing interest in an on-going working relationship.

Once she signs the contract, should I provide my original client with a small discount as a "thanks" for the referral? Or is that opening some sort of pandora's box?

Thanks for your advice!
Karyn

Hi Karn,

This is a common question often asked here on VAF.

Many VAs have an ongoing referral program. My own is 10% off the next invoice if the referrer is my client. Or, if they are not my client I send 10% in the form of a gift card with a handwritten note thanking them for the referral.

If you use the search feature here on VAF in the upper right corner, you can search for other responses. Here's one I answered where I explain never to give free hours in return for a referral. That could be a problem later on.

So glad to hear you are picking up clients through referrals. It is really the best way to grow a business.

Janine

__________________
WRITE FAB RFP PROPOSALS & land THE VA job. WinningRFP unveils soon! SignUp www.WinningRFP.com

Some people offer a commission on the job they were referred and others offer their client a discount. I don't do either personally but I have established a small network locally where we refer clients to each other without any type of monetary compensation.

__________________
Sabrina L. Williams
For a bird's eye view of your business

If they provide a referral that turns into a client, I think offering a discount on their next invoice is a nice way of showing your appreciation for their time and support.

__________________
Linda
Clockwise Virtual Assistance

I offer a 10% discount on their next invoice if their referral becomes a client.

__________________
Susan Mershon, PMP
http://clevercollaborations.com/

Thanks for the replies! I appreciate your help.

Karyn

I think offering a discount is the way to go, plus you're giving your existing client a reason to go out and find you clients if they know there is something in it for them.

Last year I was watching a VA webinar and the host suggested offering one free hour to the client who referred the newly signed client to you as a thank you.

__________________
Paulette R.
Rhythm Virtual Solutions | Alpha & Beta Translations