In a perfect world, all of our business would come from referrals and we would never have to cold call again, right? So, why not make it happen? Here are some ways I've found to get high quality "hot" referrals:

1. Business Networking is a must. If you can master this skill, you will reap huge rewards. The key to networking is to simply build a few valuable relationships with other professionals - NOT to hand out as many business cards as possible. Just find small groups that meet once a month. You will actually make true friends and it won't even feel like work after a while.

2. When you meet someone for the first time, only mention your business briefly and steer the conversation completely toward the other person's business. Later that day, forward an article or a helpful something pertaining to your earlier conversation that they may find interesting. They will think you are a terrific listener, you cared about their business, and they will jump through hoops to return the favor by giving you a referral! This has happened to me more times that I can count! In fact, when folks ask me what I do, I just tell them they can go to my website, www.emeraldsuccess.com, and then ask them to tell me more about their business.

3. Give Referrals whenever possible. The best networks believe in the "givers gain" philosophy (what goes around comes around). Just make a genuine attempt to help those that you meet.

4. Prove Yourself. Most folks will want to try your services/products, etc., before referring you to their contacts. So, when someone approaches you about your business, always treat everyone like gold. You have to provide the sense of security that you will take excellent care of their referrals and they will be proud to do business with you.

5. Always be specific when describing your "perfect referral". Don't assume that everyone understands your business and knows who you are looking to "sell". For example, I tell folks that I would like to talk with extremely sharp business professionals who are interested in Leadership, Marketing and Business Development. All of a sudden when I say that, people start visualizing who they know that fit that description and the referrals start flowing...(especially when I tell them about my referral program!)