Thinking of Getting Out of the Business

[Frank Stastny]

This is the one aspect that I am just not very good at.
I have tried going the route of asking for referrals with little success. All my clients say the same thing if something comes up they will give my name out.
I guess I might just be a bit timid of looking like I am begging for business but I do always ask.

Maybe I should beg for business?

There are lots of things agents are not initially "good at". Becoming "good" at those things is what separates the the really successful ones.

Referrals are not given simply because one "asks" for them. They have to be earned by providing excellent service. Your client first has to know how you treat them before they are going to tell others they know about you.

You said, "I guess I might just be a bit timid of looking like I am begging for business but I do always ask.

Maybe I should beg for business?"

I believe the problem you are having is just as you stated. To them you do come across as though you are "begging". Give them a valid reason for giving you referrals.

Approach it with the attitude that you are doing them a favor by helping their friends the way you helped them. That makes them look good in their friends eyes.

People love to do "favors" for the people they like and trust.

 

[moonlightandmargaritas]

I have tried going the route of asking for referrals with little success. All my clients say the same thing if something comes up they will give my name out.

I agree with Frank wholeheartedly.

I never ask directly. I do remind them at least four times a year (2 email, 2 regular mail) - and I reward them.

My philosophy is that you have to earn it. I provide a lot of attention and stellar service to my clients. The majority of them appreciate it. The ones that don't I ignore and try to get rid of.

I have one client that has referred FOUR new excellent clients to me year to date.

 

[shaedzs]

Great point Frank, I couldn't agree more regarding referrals. Like most things in life, you get what you give. If you focus on genuinely helping people solve their insurance problems, they will be inclined to send their friends and family your way for similar service, especially if you ask. You're doing them a favor. If your work comes across as looking to earn a commission and nothing else, then inevitably asking for referrals in this situation is going to come across as begging.

 

[xrac]

Not a peep out of Yellow and we are 35 posts in. He must have already quit.