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Referrals Checklist

Establish a systematic referral program that incentivizes past clients and partners to refer new business. Complete tasks in order to build a sustainable referral system that complements your reputation management and partnership strategies.

Phase 1: Foundation Setup​

  • Design Referral Program Structure - Define referral incentives, terms, and eligibility. Determine what you'll offer (discount, gift card, cash, or service credit) and establish clear terms for when referrals convert to customers.

  • Set Up Referral Tracking System - Establish method to track referrals (CRM tags, referral codes, or dedicated form). Ensure you can attribute new customers to their referrers.

Phase 2: Website & Communication Integration​

  • Create Referral Program Page - Build dedicated referral program page on website explaining the program, incentives, and how to refer. Include clear call-to-action and contact information.

  • Add Referral Links to Website - Link to referral program from key pages (footer, about page, contact page) and ensure it's easily discoverable.

  • Integrate into Email Communications - Add referral program mention to email newsletters, email signatures, and post-project follow-up emails.

Phase 3: Client Appreciation & Retention​

  • Establish Client Gift Program - Plan occasional small gifts (like holiday chocolates or project completion gifts) to show appreciation and improve retention. Determine appropriate occasions and gift types. See Client Appreciation Gifts for comprehensive gift strategies and budget guidelines.

  • Implement Client Gift Delivery - Set up process for delivering client gifts at appropriate touchpoints (project completion, holidays, anniversary of project completion).

Phase 4: Ongoing Promotion​

  • Set Up Quarterly Referral Reminders - Schedule quarterly email campaigns to existing clients reminding them about the referral program. See Promote Referral Program for recurring task details.

  • Monitor Referral Performance - Track referral sources, conversion rates, and ROI to optimize program effectiveness.

Reference Documents​