Referrals are a great way to increase traffic for your business. Referrals are free and can get you an extra edge over your competition. Generating leads and referrals for your business is one of the key ingredients to success. Learning how to take advantage of this free marketing tool is easier than you think.

Network with Others

Networking is vital to your business' success. You should always be networking, and not just with potential clients. Network with your local chamber of commerce, business groups, and even your competition. Opportunities for networking are all around you, take advantage of them. Is there any business related seminars or events in your area be sure to attend.

Attend Trade Shows

Trade shows can be a great source for referrals if you use the opportunity effectively. Invest in a nice banner that displays your company logo, website, and phone number. Try to lease a booth that is near a main entrance or walkway. High traffic areas carry the most potential prospects. Be creative and raffle off a product or service. One FREE giveaway can generate a list of 100 or more leads. The money you spend in material and freebies will be well worth it in the long run.

Family and Friends

If you have lousy people skills, then you probably won't get many referrals. But, if you are knowledgeable about your products and services and have been blessed with the gift of gab, then you can turn any conversation into a potential referral. People in your family and circle of friends can help you land more referrals than you could dream of. By simply telling the right person about your company and handing out some business cards may help you cultivate a lot of referrals to, and the best part is, they are doing your work for you!

Craft Interesting Copy

Inexpensive ways to obtain referrals are everywhere. Look at online publications, ezines, and newsletters, which have a similar interest but not exactly like your own venture. Send out creative articles that interest the target market for publication. Make sure you include hidden links to your URL, products, or services within the content of your articles. Soon ... a large percent of the readers will come to your website.

Join Affiliate Programs

Internet gurus stress the importance of using Affiliate Programs. Some claim that a website that only specializes in affiliate programs will earn you thousands of dollars for doing nothing. But, the real advantage of an affiliate program is "getting the news out." Each time someone signs up for your affiliate program, a link, or banner appears on the affiliate's site. It's an inexpensive way to advertise your business in a more adverse market.

Use Marketing Material

Marketing material is key in not only getting your name out there but helping to ensure people remember it. You can turn any casual conversation into a potential referral. When meeting with business professionals always ask for their business cards and offer yours. Your business card should be simple and professional, try and avoid too much clutter.

Several weeks after your meeting be sure to send a thank you card and brochure or discount card. This will let people know you've enjoyed meeting them and look for to doing business with them in the future. Also let them know that family, friends, and colleagues are invited to take advantage of any savings you have passed on to them. Done correctly you can end up with hundreds of referrals from just one conversation.

Expensive or not, referrals can be obtained by being a little creative and knowing other business professionals. A hermit, who sits behind a computer all day and does nothing to socialize, has less of a chance to succeed at receiving referrals; while energetic professionals can have flocks eating out of their palm. In the end, use the tools available to you and reap the benefits.