Is it rude to ask for a referral?

Asked by: Dr. Kevon Carter MD  |  Last update: March 8, 2025
Score: 4.8/5 (9 votes)

There's nothing inherently rude about asking your clients for referrals, so just bite the bullet and get on with it. All you're demonstrating is a passion for what you do and a pro-active approach to growing your agency. If you're still against being direct, there are other ways to get some client kudos.

How do you politely ask for referrals?

Always personalize your referral request with a thoughtful message. Even if you're asking a few different people, write to each referrer individually. Mention why you're asking them in particular and provide context on how you think they can help you.

Is it okay to ask someone for a referral?

Better Preparedness: If you ask first, the person can be better prepared to speak positively and knowledgeably about your qualifications. In general, it's best to reach out to the person you want to refer you, explain the situation, and ask if they would be comfortable acting as a referral.

How to word asking for a referral?

I'm exploring new career opportunities, & I would greatly appreciate your help in providing me a referral to (company/position) or introducing me to any relevant contacts. I value your insights and professional network, & any support would be helpful.

How to ask for referrals without sounding desperate?

Asking directly isn't bad but you need to be tactful. ``If you liked what we did for you, please let us know if there is anyone else in your network that could use our services. We'd be happy to give you a commission for referrals as well.'' Also sometimes they come naturally if you do a good job.

The CORRECT Way Ask Your Customers For A Referral

22 related questions found

How do you ask for something without sounding needy?

So there's the secret to making non-pushy, non-demanding requests. Phrase your requests as hypotheticals. That way, the recipient doesn't feel obligated to do anything if they don't want to.

How do I ask for a private referral?

Talk to them about whether you might need a specialist assessment or treatment. If your GP thinks you need to see a specialist and you want to pay for it privately, they can write a letter of referral to a private consultant or specialist explaining your condition and your medical history.

What is a good sentence for referral?

Her referral is understood to have occurred around that time. All our urgent referral pathways have remained open during the pandemic.

What is the best script for asking for referrals?

I'm very happy to hear you're satisfied with [Service Work] we provided last week. Please let me know if there's anything else we can do for you! I also wanted to let you know about our referral program for friends and family who may need similar services.

How to get a referral without a primary doctor?

If you don't have a primary doctor or your doctor won't provide a referral, there are alternative ways to obtain one: Urgent Care Centers: Urgent care centers are an option for obtaining referrals for non-emergency conditions. They can evaluate your health issue and provide referrals to specialists if needed.

When can I ask for a referral?

There are at least six times when you should ask for a referral. 1) When a customer voluntarily suggests that your product is incredible. 2) When a customer sends an unsolicited testimonial. 3) When a customer refers someone to you.

Is it rude to ask for a referral on LinkedIn?

Don't ask for referrals from people you don't know well

It's important to build a relationship with someone before asking for a referral on LinkedIn. If you don't know the person well, they may not feel comfortable vouching for you to their own network.

How do you ask someone to be your reference via text?

In either scenario, keep your message concise. For example, “I'm applying for [Job Title] positions and was hoping you'd be willing to be a reference. Your experience with my work on [Specific Project/Skill] would be invaluable. If you're open to it, please let me know.

How do you say no when someone asks for a referral?

Here are a few possible responses:
  1. “Unfortunately, I don't know him well enough to provide a reference.”
  2. “Thank you for reaching out to me, but I'm not comfortable serving as a reference for her.”
  3. “It's been quite a while since I've worked with them, and I'm not familiar with their recent professional experience.”

What is the difference between a reference and a referral?

What is the Difference Between Reference and Referral? By definition, a reference is a person that can validate a potential candidate's resume and claims. A referral, however, is a person that recommends one to another, such as in suggesting an individual for an open role within a company.

How to ask old clients for referrals?

Start by acknowledging your client's satisfaction—mention any successful projects or positive feedback they've shared. Next, be clear and direct about your request without making it feel like a favor. Clients are often more than willing to help when they see the value it brings to your business. Finally, make it easy!

How to ask for referrals without asking?

6 Proven Ways to Get Referrals Without Asking for Them
  1. Don't Ask For Referrals — Your Clients Should Want To Give Them. ...
  2. Give Lots of Referrals. ...
  3. Focus on Newer Customers. ...
  4. Thank Your Referrers (Preferably with Gifts) ...
  5. Know the Difference Between a Referral and a Lead. ...
  6. Create a (Legitimate) Product for Clients to Hand Out.

How do you write an email asking for referrals?

I'm really glad that you were so pleased with my work on (project details). I wanted to reach out to you to ask if you might know anyone else who might be interested in similar services. I'm always looking for new referrals and ways to grow my business and (add a note about your availability, particularly if limited).

How to ask for a referral over the phone?

Ask for referrals on the phone

For example, you could be on a call with a client who is sharing some success as a result of your work. That's a great time to say, “I'm so glad you're seeing results! If you know anyone else who might benefit from my services, feel free to connect us. I offer (commission) for referrals.”

What is a good way to ask for a referral?

How to ask for a referral
  • Ask directly. Directly asking a client for referrals is the most straightforward method. ...
  • Post on social media. ...
  • Include the request on your invoice. ...
  • Ask for reviews. ...
  • Be specific and personal. ...
  • Remind contacts. ...
  • Send an email to announce new offerings. ...
  • Conduct a survey.

What is a sample sentence for recommend?

A friend recommended this restaurant. They recommended her for a promotion after only two years. It is strongly recommended that you change the oil in your car every 5,000 miles.

What is an example of a referral message?

Subject line: We value your referrals! Dear [Customer Name], We hope this message finds you well. We're writing to ask for a small favor; if you're happy with the services we've provided, please consider referring us to your friends and colleagues.

How do you get a referral from someone?

Tips for requesting a referral
  1. Consider your tone and relationship. Adjust how formally you ask for a referral based on how well you know the person and their position.
  2. Accept that they might refuse. ...
  3. Find out if the company has a bonus program. ...
  4. Express gratitude. ...
  5. Maintain your network.

Can a specialist refuse a referral?

A physician may refuse a referral for a variety of reasons but not if he or she has a preexisting duty to care for the patient.

Is an urgent referral serious?

The urgent referral pathway is usually (but not always) reserved for suspicions of cancer but most urgent referrals do not end in a diagnosis of cancer. The referral is considered urgent because the specialist needs to arrange investigations quickly to try to establish what is wrong.