1. Don't ignore your own "Acres of diamonds" - ask your existing clients to refer some of their family, friends and associates to you. If they're happy with your service they will be more than happy to do it and your job will be much easier since they are coming recommended by someone they trust.
2. Former employers and associates in other fields can be a great resource for finding new business. Give them a call, or better yet - have lunch and catch up with them but don't be shy to ask for referrals!
3. Ask your current prospects who they know that may need your products or services. It may sound odd at first but give it a try and your opinion may quickly change. Especially if you've gone out of your way to help them.
Remember that most good people generally enjoy helping others when you make it easy for them. When you ask the people inside your circle of influence to help you by referring new clients, you're helping yourself, you're helping them by enabling them to help you, and you're helping the potential clients by providing a quality product or service that they need.
Jeremy L. Knauff is the founder & CEO of Wildfire Marketing Group, a full service Marketing Firm specializing in helping small companies compete with larger companies.
