Reg Gupton's Top 10 Referral Business Builder Tips

It is an old saw that it is more expensive to acquire new customers than to work with established ones. This has certainly been my personal experience and the experience of others that I have consulted to and coached over the years.

Ignore these habits at your peril.

1. Be honest at all costs. No matter what.

2. Never pressure someone just to make a sale

3. See every customer as a friend not just as a sale or money.

4. Don't work with everyone that crosses your threshold. Be selective and work with those that you genuinely like.

5. Stay in touch after the transaction is over. If nothing else, be in touch with cards, letters and newsletters. In person or on the phone are the best.

6. Perform a written post-transaction quality survey. Then listen to what your clients say.

7. Follow the "Platinum Rule." Do unto others as they would have you do unto them.

8. Give small referral gifts to everyone that sends you a lead whether it becomes a sale or not.

9. Learn the biggest problem in your industry. Solve it for your customers.

10. If your industry offers advanced designations, earn them and display your credentials.