I have long been of the opinion that the most effective form of Advertising is word-of-mouth referrals. Not only are personal referrals effective, it is probably the least costly Marketing tool in your arsenal. For some reason, however, it seems like the most difficult tactic to execute. I cannot say that I know exactly why, but people find it daunting to ask for referrals. I recently hit on a solution for my business that I would like to pass along.
I recently crafted a script to help my network and clients make referrals on my behalf. Although it may require some editing to work in your business, the basic outline seems to be sound based on the feedback I have received. Here it is for your consideration.
THIRD PARTY REFERRAL TEMPLATE:
(Insert Name), it is my pleasure to introduce you to Jim Weber. Jim is President and Owner of New Century Dynamics Executive Search, a Professional Services Firm engaged in Executive Search, Outplacement Services, Placement of Interim Executives, and Contract Employees. Their focus includes Restaurant and Hospitality, Food Service Distribution, and Retail segments. They are specialist in sourcing Marketing, Operations, Finance, and Business Development (Franchising) Talent and are particularly adept at executing the confidential search process. The company is primarily focused on growth oriented Restaurant Chains with revenues in the $100 to $500 Million range. Their client base includes Regional and National Brands across all industry segments.
Prior to forming New Century Dynamics in 1999, Jim Weber spent 25 years with Fortune 500 companies in the Service Industry where he developed a broad-based portfolio of “hands-on” line and staff experience in growth and turnaround situations. A proven Executive with exceptional Leadership skills, Jim has a strong financial background and heavy operations experience in restaurants, specialty retail stores, food manufacturing and distribution. He has a very strong background in Franchising as well.
During Jim’s career his background in Strategic Market Planning and his strong Profit Orientation supported successful New Business Development Projects, Same Store Sales Increases, Expense Control Systems, and Labor Productivity. Through his leadership and the ability to build strong teams, he developed Organizations that consistently delivered the Profit Plan, year in and year out.
(Insert Name), I am confident that you will enjoy meeting Jim Weber and learning more about New Century Dynamics Executive Search. You will find that he has impeccable references and you have a number of mutual friends.
For more detailed information about Jim, his company’s capabilities and their client list please visit his website at www.NewCenturyDynamics.com.
When do you have time on your calendar to meet Jim?
Make it easy for your network to make referrals on your behalf and more referral business will come your way!
Let me know if this works for you.