The Gritty Virtual Assistant Blog

In my own practice, I had a wonderful experience recently working with an out-of-state vendor. One of my clients needed a process service performed on a lawsuit we’re handling and I was tasked with securing a process server for the job. The service wasn’t entirely straightforward, but the process server handled everything in stride and followed up very diligently and with great attention to detail.

Once completed, he sent his invoice which we promptly paid. After receiving payment, we got a very nice message from him thanking us for the business and speedy payment. He went on to ask us this:

“I was wondering if you would please spread my contact information around to others in the profession who might need service done in Minnesota. Also, if you have a chance, would you be so kind as to write a review/referral that I could post on my website and/or my marketing materials.”

I was more than happy to oblige him and sent him a fabulous testimonial.

Why am I sharing this with you Virtual Assistants? Because it’s such a fantastic example of taking the bull by the horns and asking for what you want or need in business. I think the way he worded his request was perfect in its simplicity, sincerity and directness. Virtual Assistants can and should be doing the same thing in their businesses. Here are some pointers to help you do that:

1. First, make sure the client is happy/satisfied with the work. Why on earth would they want to give you a referral or testimonial if they aren’t happy with your service? Asking them will be even more offputting if that’s the case. So be sure and elicit feedback or otherwise make sure they are satisfied before asking anything of them.
2. Don’t ask for referrals/testimonials/recommendations prematurely. Again, this can be very offputting. If the work is project based, don’t ask right in the middle of things. Wait until it is completed in full and the client is happy before asking. If the client is one you work with continuously (such as on a retained basis), make it part of your process to elicit feedback and testimonials at least every six months.
3. Ask for what you want, just like this vendor did. On a regular basis and at the end of every project, ask clients for their recommendations and to spread the word about your service. You act proactively on behalf of clients–do the same for yourself!
4. Make it as easy as possible for clients to refer you. This fellow’s request made it very clear who we should refer (“anyone needing process service in  Minnesota.”). The more you have your target market specifically defined, the easier and more frequently folks will refer to you and spread the word.

Now go get those referrals and recommendations!