How to network for referrals (online and off)

Much of the best business comes through referrals and relationships, not cold marketing. Networking — building genuine relationships with people who can refer you — is one of the highest-return activities for a small business.

How to network for referrals

• •Build relationships with complementary businesses (not competitors).
• •Be genuinely helpful — refer others, and it comes back.
• •Stay visible in your community and industry.
• •Make it easy for people to refer you (be clear who you help).

Give first

The best referral networks are built on generosity, not transactions. Help others, do great work, and be someone people are happy to recommend — the referrals follow naturally.