Quick Win + Pro Tip: How Thanking Somebody For a Past Referral Can Boost Your Business

One of your past clients reaches out to give you a referral that could lead to new business. You talk on the phone or email back and forth with this new connection for a while when they ask an important question: Can I connect with you on LinkedIn?

Of course, you’re thinking. Why wouldn’t I be willing to?

And, of course, the answer to that question is yes. But before you send over your profile or find them and request to connect, pause and think about when the last time you updated your profile was. Better yet - when was the last time you critically looked at it from the lens of a potential client?

What will they find when they look at your profile? Is the picture professional, polished, and current, or is it blurry and so dated, they won’t be 100% positive it’s actually you? Is your background picture something that represents you, or is it a gray box? Does the title you have listed match the one they have for you? What about your job description?

Your LinkedIn profile is one of the first ways new connections learn more about you and the value you can bring to them. So before you send that invite, make sure you’re being intentional about the message yours sends.

And after that? Take a minute to thank the person who gave you the referral.

This is an important step that a lot of us miss.

If you’re like a lot of businesses, the growth of your company relies heavily on referrals. From friends and family telling their network about you to happy customers sharing your information, word of mouth is one of the best forms of marketing there is. And when somebody provides you with that (free!) marketing, they deserve some recognition, not only in the moment, but years after the fact.

If there’s somebody who gave you a referral in the past, especially if that referral resulted in regular business over time, following up years later to thank them will show the ongoing positive impact their referral had on your business.

Why is this important? It could re-energize your relationship with the connection and lead to them working with you again. It could lead to another referral that turns into a long-term customer. And it could give you an opportunity to return the favor.

Regardless of the immediate or long-term impact, it starts a conversation with somebody who’s helped you in the past and opens up the door to support somebody who’s previously done the same for you.

Not sure what to say? Copy and paste the email template below and add your personalization!


Hello [NAME],

I just wanted to drop you a note with an update! A few years ago, you referred, [insert name] to me, and they’ve been a wonderful customer ever since. 

It’s been a really great experience for our team, and it wouldn’t have been possible without your referral. I just wanted to say thanks again! 

Let me know if you’d like to touch base or have time to catch up sometime in the next couple of months. I’d love to have the opportunity to return the favor.  I really value our relationship, and if there is anything I can do to support you or your business, please let me know! 

Best,
[NAME]

The potential return on investment from this quick note is huge - and it’ll feel good to send.