Whenever I give a referral, I always, without fail, communicate with the receiver of the referral to ensure that the referral is within the scope of his work and that he is able to fulfill the referred person’s needs.

Examples:

1. Sometime back, a friend requested me to find out if there is a coach or a mentor who can guide her son, who is having learning difficulties. In this case, I contacted the service provider in a referral group and inquired if he is able to handle these type of cases. Then and only then, did I put the two parties together for an introduction. I was involved in the first meeting as well between the two parties.

2. A fortnight ago, a senior uncle of mine visiting from Toronto had to visit his daughter who is married and living in Karachi, Pakistan. He needed not only the plane tickets, but also the visa to enter the Republic of Pakistan. He is in his 80s and is having knee problems… so he asked me if anyone can help apply for a visa for him without him having to visit the High Commissioner in Kuala Lumpur. I contacted my travel agent friend and inquired from him the details. Again, this was a very hands-on involvement case.

I can give you a few more examples, but the point is this: when giving a referral to your colleagues in your referral generation groups, always be in communication with them prior to giving the referral, and prior to announcing the referral to your other colleagues in your group.

The reason is this: you are referring to solve a particular issue or a problem your contacts have. This aspect of the referral process must be respected this first and foremost.

The reason for connecting people via referrals is not to make you look good in front of your colleagues.

Therefore, always communicate frequently with your referral partners and the contact who requires the services.

Every referral has a story behind it. Therefore, to ensure that the referral you give to your colleagues is a worthwhile endeavour to both him and you, you need to communicate and uncover the story behind the referral.

Rather than surprising your colleague with a referral that he doesn’t know yet, it is better to communicate ahead of time, and when the referral is given, perhaps, your colleague can right away thank you or give a brief feedback to your other colleagues about the progress, and this will add to your credibility in the eyes of your group.