My Best 3 Referral Channels for Interior Designers

Did you know that 78% of business-to-business marketers say that referral programs generate good or excellent leads? So, what are you waiting for if referrals are such a great option to grow your interior design business?  

Developing mutually beneficial relationships with other professionals and past clients will help you bring in more design clients. Additionally, these leads are typically higher qualified than any other marketing or sales channel. I am sharing my three best referral channels to help you get started in this video.

If you want more on referrals, check out these articles:

Quick Guide to Generating Interior Design Leads with Referrals

 

10 Business Referral Avenues to Help Grow an Interior Design Business

Video Transcript:

Hey, Jackie Green here from GAI’s Behind the Design. Are you looking to grow your interior design business without spending a dime? Then you need to hear this tip. A great way to find new clients is to have someone else send them to you through a referral. But, who can send you referrals?

If you want more leads, then have someone generate those leads for you. There are many professionals where you can develop a win-win relationship. I have an entire list on our blog at www.behindthedesignco.com. Here are three to get you started…

First, connect with professionals with similar audiences as you. Think about your ideal client. What other services do they purchase? Clients with a certain means will most likely have relationships with a financial advisor or a CPA. These professionals may be great sources which is why they are number 3 on our list.

Second, try other interior designers. I know you are rolling your eyes but think about it. If I specialize in commercial design and a client asks me for residential, I would be happy to send the business to a trusted residential designer. It works both ways. It is a win-win for both of us. Some designers will do both, but others are specific to a certain industry or project type.

Finally, the best referral channel is your existing clients. Your clients are the best referral avenue because they know the experience you deliver. They are happy with the service and can talk up your praise to others. Your clients are likely professionals and hang out with other professionals. When a project ends, simply ask your client to pass your name along to anyone who might be in need.

Another quick tip, when a project ends and you take photos – share those photos with your client. Then, encourage your client to share the photos via social to their friends. Most people love sharing their spaces. It gives them a feeling of accomplishment and some bragging rights.    

If you found this helpful, I encourage you to check out my other tips at BehindtheDesignCo.com. Also, be sure to sign up for our newsletter for more great business and career tips. GAI’s Behind the Design is helping build a stronger design community by reimagining how we train, educate, and support interior designers after college.