⚙️Stop Asking for Referrals Like It’s a Favor. Trigger Introductions Instead.

Ever run into a past client at the grocery store… and your brain blurts out: “So… uh… know anyone buying or selling?”
You immediately regret it, they do the polite smile, and you both pretend the bananas are suddenly fascinating. Here’s what happened, what went wrong, and how to fix it without sounding awkward, salesy, or desperate.

A buddy-agent told me he finally saw “the perfect moment” to ask for referrals—right after a smooth closing. Happy clients, great reviews, celebratory vibes… the whole thing. So he went for it.

He said, “If you know anyone looking to buy or sell, I’d love a referral.”
And the client did that thing people do when they feel cornered—big smile, fast nod, zero follow-through. Not because they didn’t like him… but because it felt like a transaction. Like he was asking them to spend social capital on his behalf.

A week later, he tried something different with another client—same satisfaction level, same relationship strength—but a better trigger. And that client introduced him to two people within 10 days… happily… like it was their idea.

Lesson/Takeaway

Referrals die when they feel like a favor. Introductions happen when you give people a simple, specific reason to connect you—and a script that makes them feel helpful (not pressured).

Big idea: Don’t ask for referrals. Trigger introductions with clarity + permission.

What it is: A short script that invites an intro without making the client feel like they’re “selling” you.
Why it works: It shifts the moment from “do me a favor” to “help someone you care about.”
How to do it: Send this to 5 past clients today (text works best).

Copy/Paste Script (2 sentences):
“Hey — quick question. If someone in your world mentions moving in 2026, would you feel comfortable introducing us? I’ll take great care of them the same way I took care of you—zero pressure, just solid guidance.”

Optional closer (if you want a soft landing):
“No worries either way—just wanted to put it on your radar.”

Resource of the Week: Give and Take — Adam Grant

The insight: People are more likely to help when it feels like they’re giving value to someone else, not doing a “favor” for you.

Why it matters: Your best clients don’t mind connecting you—what they hate is feeling like they’re being asked to “pitch” you.

How to put it into practice (one concrete move):
Create a note in your CRM called “People Like You” and write one line for each top client:

Then when you use the trigger, you can add this one personalization:
“I’m looking to work with a couple more people like you this year.”

Last issue of 2025!
And it’s going to be sneaky-powerful.
I’ll show you a simple “New Year reconnect” message that wakes up past clients without sounding like: “Hi… remember me?”

Most agents start January chasing new leads. You’re going to start it by reactivating relationships you already earned.

The paid edition gives you the full package — scripts, systems, and templates designed to save you time and help you win more repeat customers and referrals.

👉 Unlock it here → Upgrade