---
title: Never Ask for Referrals This Way
description: In today's post, Joanne Black, author of No More Cold Calling, shares a critical mistake that salespeople make when asking for referrals.
image: https://www.jillkonrath.com/hs-fs/file-16502333-png/images/blogs/never-ask-for-referrals-this-way-02-22-2012-no-more-cold-calling.png
---

# [Jill Konrath](https://www.jillkonrath.com/)

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In today's never-ever post, [Joanne Black](http://www.nomorecoldcalling.com/about-us/), author of *[No More Cold Calling](http://www.nomorecoldcalling.com/products/book/)*, shares a critical mistake that salespeople make when asking for referrals. And, as the Queen of Referral Selling, she shares what does work too.

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Salespeople should never ask, “If you know anyone who could benefit from my services, please let them know.”

It seems like a simple request for a referral, but it gets us nowhere—except to say we’ve checked “asking for referrals” off of our list. Also, asking for an introduction to "anyone" is far too broad a description for anyone to think of anyone.  
   
This phrase bumps up against the discomfort most people feel in asking for a referral introduction. For some it feels pushy, salesy, and too much “in your face.” Mostly, salespeople are afraid that people might say no. So, instead of asking straight-up with confidence, they ask in a lame way and--not surprisingly--get nothing in return.  
   
Much better to ask, “Who are one or two people you know that I should meet?” Without an introduction from a Referral Source, you are making cold calls with a dismal rate of return. Ask for a referral introduction to your ideal client and boost your close rate to more than 50 percent!"

**Your Turn? Share your Never-Ever Story in the [comments section](https://www.jillkonrath.com/sales-blog/bid/117714/Never-Tell-Your-Client-What-They-Need-Before-They-Tell-It-To-You) of my blog.**

_________________

*To learn more about how to build your business through referrals, visit [NoMoreColdCalling.com](http://www.nomorecoldcalling.com).* ![1 No More Cold Calling](https://www.jillkonrath.com/hs-fs/file-16502333-png/images/blogs/never-ask-for-referrals-this-way-02-22-2012-no-more-cold-calling.png?width=10&height=10&name=never-ask-for-referrals-this-way-02-22-2012-no-more-cold-calling.png)

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