Whether you’re a novice business owner or an experienced one you already may be known as a resource. When I was a schoolteacher and now in business, people always think of me as someone who has heard of nearly everybody or everything. And if I don’t know something or someone I suggest someone who knows. That makes me a resource.

So if I can’t help you then I can recommend someone who can. You may need a copywriter, a cleaner, a massage therapist, a photographer, a web designer, a lawyer or something else.

After all, I’ve been in business and networking for 40 years so I know lots of people!

How to give someone the name of people you recommend

Send an email yourself. Put both people in the “To” line. Introduce them to each other. Tell where you and the referral met and why you think the referee and her business could use her services. Then leave it to them.

Always ask that they use your name

The person will remember who you are and it becomes another way to build relationships. When the time comes that they need your services they’ll think of you. Who knows?

Here is an example of how it can work

I was at a networking event and told a colleague that I needed a cleaner. She brought me a flyer of one who was at the networking event we were attending. I saw the name of that network event’s leader Deanne Kelleher of Kaos Group as a referral in the brochure so I asked Deanne about them. She said they’re really good. But there’s more! She said that if they weren’t right for me she knows others.

So I called the cleaner and used her and her work was great!

Remember that you need to describe what you need as precisely as you can when you ask.

As women, we’re good at giving, aren’t we?

What service did you need and someone gave you the name of someone she uses or knows. It happens all the time! Comment here and share their contact info with everyone.

 Originally posted on March 10, 2012