Previously, we talked about the benefits of Successful Referrals as part of your VA Marketing Toolbox, specifically what to consider when making or receiving them. Today, let’s look at the various ways you can structure referrals to help your business grow.
1. Reward Schemes
You can offer a financial incentive to anyone who refers a client that successfully converts. In my VA business, we pay 10% of the first three months’ invoices upon receipt of payment. You might prefer:
A one-off set fee.
A percentage of the first invoice only (e.g., 10%).
2. Client Referral Schemes
The best time to ask a client for a referral is right after your first client review. Once they see the positive impact you’ve had on their business, they are in the strongest position to recommend you to others.
If asking verbally feels awkward, try these two methods:
The Evaluation Form: Add a point to your first review form mentioning that you value them as a client and are looking for others of their caliber.
The Direct Letter: Send a professional letter or email asking if they know anyone who would benefit from your services, and mention your reward scheme here.
The Referral Discount: Instead of cash, offer 10% off their next invoice, or a “thank you” gift like a book or a treat they enjoy.
3. Strategic Introducers and Connectors
Identify who else works with your niche. For example, if your niche is training consultants, your “connectors” might include PR consultants, business coaches, accountants, web designers, or HR consultants.
Tip: Never bombard connectors for referrals. Desperation is off-putting! Let them come back to you in their own time.
4. Affiliate Links
Using affiliate software, you can provide partners with a link to place on their website. When a visitor follows that link and signs up, the software tracks it automatically. In return, you can offer them a commission or cross-promote their links on your site.
5. Service Provider Referrals
Think about the people you pay for services—your printer, bookkeeper, or web designer. Ask if they would be happy to:
Feature you in their newsletter.
Keep your business cards in their reception area.
Include your flyer in their next direct mail campaign.
6. Referring to Other VAs
If a prospective client isn’t a fit for your niche or location, recommend another VA. The client will respect your honesty and professional integrity. You don’t necessarily need to charge a fee here; often, the “reward” is a reciprocal relationship where that VA sends clients back to you in the future.
7. General Marketing Material
Ensure your website, newsletter, and brochures explicitly ask: “Who do you know that would value a Virtual Assistant?” and mention your incentive scheme.
Take Your Marketing to the Next Level
Referrals are powerful, but they work best when you have a solid business foundation and a community to back you up.
If you are struggling to find “Connectors” or aren’t sure how to draft your first Referral Agreement, the VA Membership is here to help. Gain access to a network of fellow VAs, expert mentorship, and the templates you need to turn your marketing from “random” to “results-driven.”
Click here to invest in the VA Membership and build a sustainable business today!
