How to Leverage Your Professional Network for More Referrals

You know the old saying: "To make a friend, be a friend." The same outlook hold true in your professional relationships. To encourage referrals from your network, be a source of referrals for other home services professionals that you are friendly with. Here are four ways you can do just that.

1. Create a Moving Guide for Buyers

One way to ensure that you are sending referrals to your professional contacts is to be the gateway for consumers looking for a recommendation. Establish yourself as a resource that homeowners can consult immediately upon closing a transaction. Many buyers change service providers when moving, so when you hand over the key, also give them a handy guide to local service providers. Include a list of local companies and contact information for each. To get started, you can use below chart of the most commonly changed service providers.

Don't forget to mention that you are happy to provide recommendations for any other kind of professional services that homeowners may need. Offer your phone number and email address for them to contact you directly for information. Or you can refer them to your website if you have a list or directory of professional services there.

2. Guest Blogging

Guest blogging is a way to get your name in front of a local audience and establish your expertise by contributing content to sites other than your own. It benefits both you and your host--you provide great content and they provide SEO-boosting links back to your site. Approach local builders, travel agencies, the Chamber of Commerce and beyond to suggest a "guest post exchange" where both site owners write articles for the other's blog. This is also a great way to diversify to your content and keep your readers interested!

3. Co-Host Educational Events with Local Home Professionals

Strengthen ties with other professionals and former clients at the same time by co-hosting "home expert seminars." If you know of a contractor from your business directory who is full of great advice on kitchen remodeling, for example, ask if they're willing to share their expertise at a co-sponsored event. Provide refreshments and share promotional duties. That way, you'll both meet new potential clients while staying relevant to existing ones.

4. Offer a Local Business Directory

We mentioned offering a list or directory of home services professionals on your website earlier. It's a great way to be viewed as a resource by clients. If you provide information about related professionals on your site on your website, be sure that those professionals are aware. Send them a friendly email and ask if they'd consider including you on their site in return. It's an easy way to create goodwill, but you have to let others know first.

If you use a directory solution like Nest4Less, it's easy to encourage professionals in your network to add their business contact information to your website or Facebook page via an easy-to-use invitation feature. Learn more here.