What if a Customer or Client Wants References?by Kori Rodley Irons | More from this Blogger 02 Jun 2007 01:28 PM Did you think that "references" were just for more traditional jobs? If it has not happened already, the day will likely come when a potential client or customer will want to check up on some references before deciding to purchase your products or services. So, what do you do and how do you handle it when someone wants to check up on your business' references? It is best to anticipate that prospective clients will want references and collect them as you go along. You can ask happy and satisfied customers or clients if they would be willing to provide a reference-either in writing, or remain on file to be contacted when the requests come in. You can even provide a form for customers and clients to fill out to garner their experiences and ask them to choose whether or not they will be available to talk to prospective clients or customers. If you are caught by surprise with a request for references, do not just give out the names and contact information of past clients or customers. It is important that you contact your current customers first to ask their permission to use as a reference and try to tell them exactly what type of contact (e-mail, phone, etc.) they should expect and from whom. Again, choose a client or customer with whom you have a good working relationship and someone who has been openly happy with your business. While realism is good and you don't want to come off as glowingly fake-the goal is still to attract the prospective client. Never put a company's or customer's or client's name in your marketing materials or on your Web site without first getting their permission. This is a quick way to take a great working relationship and turn it sour. If possible, get written permission before you use any testimonials or references in your publicity. See Also: Resume' References The Dos and Don'ts of Working With Trade Contractors Learn more about Kori Rodley Irons  Bio has been removed by administrator Relevanthome business tags User Comments No comments on this article yet. Be the first to comment! Community Tags customers, references, resume Discuss this article
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