1. The power of referral partnerships

Giving referrals: Giving referrals is an excellent way to build relationships. When referring to other VAs:

1. Ask about their ideal clients and availability.
2. Ensure it's a good fit.
3. Ask how best to make the introduction.

Forming referral exchange partnerships: If you frequently exchange referrals with someone, consider forming a partnership. Aim for partnerships that add value to both parties. This could be:

• An affiliate arrangement
• Referral perks
• Listing each other as preferred partners

Never ask a stranger for a favor or a partnership: In fact, one of my mentors, Dorie Clark, suggests not asking anything of anyone until you have known them at least a year. The keyword here being “know.” They are not merely a connection. You know them and how they work and they know you and your work. This is likely someone whom you network with or have possibly taking a course of theirs. Dorie Clark was my coach and mentor. She is one of my greatest referrers as well. While we don’t have a formal partnership (people have to pay her to promote their services) she regularly refers me to her clients. I genuinely invested in her programs expecting to get only what I paid for. She took the time to get to know me and found my services valuable and therefore refers me.

2. Template

Use this template to request a referral partnership: The example below is a real one. I met Lisa through networking.

<aside> <img src="/icons/mail_purple.svg" alt="/icons/mail_purple.svg" width="40px" />

Hi Lisa,

It was great to meet you. After speaking it was clear to me we share the same clients and serve them in different ways. As an executive coach, your work with clients is crucial. I know that in order to get to the place your clients dream of they will need to stop doing everything themselves. Hiring the right VA is crucial.

You know the benefits of hiring the right VA. I loved to hear how your VA has positively impacted your business! However, clients can be very hesitant and unsure if hiring a VA is right for them. Please feel free to share The PVA Interactive Hiring Workbook with them. Also, I'm happy to fascialite a masterclass or ask me anything (AMA) session and debunk they myths about hiring a VA at no charge to the group. I'm also happy to provide your members a complimentary 20-minute session with me valued at $100.

I am happy to brainstorm ideas that would be best for your audience. Please feel free to share your calendar link or suggest a few dates and times you are available for a 20-minute conversation.

</aside>

Analysis:

• I used the word “love” here because Lisa is a woman. However, I would not have used the same term for a man. I would have changed it to “enjoy” or “excited” or “greatly appreciate.” When speaking with executives every word matters.