You must ask for referrals on a consistent and regular basis.

We have seen dramatic increases in sales through customer referring/cloning. But, we have found the success is in direct relationship with your ability to give an extraordinary dining experience to your current customers.

Another time when you can ask for referrals is when you are following up to inquire about dining experiences i.e. through the check register marketing or at other times. When a customer relates an outstanding dining experience to you, thank him and send your normal premium that you would send for answering the questionnaire, but also send him a “FREE Dinner” card if he will give you two or three referrals.

Here’s a good idea that will involve your guests and get referral business. After the guest has eaten a wonderful meal and they are about ready to leave, present them with some “after-dinner” mints or treat with the following message:

“We appreciate you giving us the opportunity to serve you today. If there is any way that we can improve our service to you, please tell us. If there was “anything” that was wrong, please give us a chance to make it right. If you were pleased with your dining experience, please recommend us to your friends.”

There are six cards in the envelope with a special “discounted” feature for your friends. Thank You!

These referral techniques will increase your sales immediately and consistently over a period of time. This is a great example of the Power of Word-Of-Mouth Advertising. There is not a restaurant in the nation that cannot benefit from systematically seeking referrals from their current customers.

This program helps your current customers to bring in new customers. The customer referral/cloning program is ongoing - week in and week out. The “Bring a Friend to Lunch” or “Save a Friend 10%” incentive is always in place, but some added incentives on a monthly or quarterly basis make it more competitive. The person who brings in the most “new” customers wins the grand prize. A stereo system, color TV, cash and a get-away vacation have all been used through the years. There should also be second and third-place prizes and a few more runner-up prizes as well.