What is your referral program?

ssimmonsphotossimmonsphoto Registered Users Posts: 424 Major grins
edited January 13, 2009 in Mind Your Own Business
I know that one of the best ways I can build my business is by referrals. I've checked out several photographers' programs (thank you, Google), but I'm curious what you guys are doing. I'd like to get something started as all of my clients so far are completely by word of mouth and I want to encourage it.
Website (hosted by Zenfolio after 6.5 years with SmugMug) | Blog (hosted by Zenfolio) | Tave User

Comments

  • Cygnus StudiosCygnus Studios Registered Users Posts: 2,294 Major grins
    edited January 11, 2009
    Nothing says "Thank you" like cash. Depending on whether you know the clients or not, you can offer a free portrait, gift certificates for your services, or a wide range of ideas.
    Since I deal with people I know most of the time, I send a nice gift certificate to their favorite dinner spot, or tickets to the dinner theatre.
    Steve

    Website
  • ssimmonsphotossimmonsphoto Registered Users Posts: 424 Major grins
    edited January 12, 2009
    Cygnus Studios wrote:
    Nothing says "Thank you" like cash. Depending on whether you know the clients or not, you can offer a free portrait, gift certificates for your services, or a wide range of ideas.
    Since I deal with people I know most of the time, I send a nice gift certificate to their favorite dinner spot, or tickets to the dinner theatre.

    I'm leaning towards the cash avenue. One of my clients was referred to me by her cousin, who is a couple states away. Free portraits or anything along those lines probably wouldn't help much. But cash would likely be welcomed by anyone.
    Website (hosted by Zenfolio after 6.5 years with SmugMug) | Blog (hosted by Zenfolio) | Tave User
  • Cygnus StudiosCygnus Studios Registered Users Posts: 2,294 Major grins
    edited January 12, 2009
    Be creative when you can. Tickets to a sporting event or social event can go a long way. By giving back you will stand out from the ground.
    Most businesses have forgotten how to take care of their customers. If you do that, you will find the word of mouth spreads pretty quickly.
    Steve

    Website
  • FedererPhotoFedererPhoto Registered Users Posts: 312 Major grins
    edited January 13, 2009
    Take this with a grain of salt, as I have no hard numbers...

    But I've found 'refferals' you need to buy (with cash, tickets, etc) are less strong than just straight word-of-mouth.
    Minneapolis Minnesota Wedding Photographer - Check out my Personal Photography site and Professional Photography Blog
    Here is a wedding website I created for a customer as a value-add. Comments appreciated.
    Founding member of The Professional Photography Forum as well.
  • Cygnus StudiosCygnus Studios Registered Users Posts: 2,294 Major grins
    edited January 13, 2009
    I would agree with you when talking general referrals. However, with past clients that refer someone, it is more of a way of saying thanks to them. It also gives them more of a reason to sell your work to friends and family.
    I have some clients that are always sending me new work, and by giving something back to them it tells them how much you appreciate their effort.
    Steve

    Website
Sign In or Register to comment.