A good time to ask is right after you've helped a member: a same-day visit, a quick answer at night, a lab price they couldn't believe. That's the moment to ask.
Moments to watch for
- When a member thanks you.
- After you solve something fast.
- When a member says they told someone about you.
- At the yearly check-in. The yearly check-in.
What to say
"I'm glad we could help. If you know someone who'd like this kind of care, I'd be glad to meet them."
Then hand them a card or text them a link. Setting up a referral program.
When not to ask
- During a hard diagnosis or a difficult visit.
- When the member has a complaint.
- Repeatedly. Once or twice a year per member is enough.
Ask for reviews the same way
The same moments are good for review requests. Pick one ask per moment. Getting more Google reviews.
Track it
In a made-up example, the doctor asks five members a week for three months, about 60 asks, and 9 new members name a referrer in that time. Compare it with the three months before.
What I'd do this week
- Write the referral line in your own words.
- Keep referral cards in every exam room.
- Ask three members this week at the right moment.
Common questions
Should staff ask, or the doctor?
Both can.
Is it unprofessional to ask?
Not if it's sincere, brief and at the right moment.
What if a member says they've already told everyone?
Thank them. That's the best outcome.
Want referral growth next to your monthly numbers?
We reconcile every account every month and send your P&L and Balance Sheet by the 15th, so you can see what each new member is worth and what it cost to get them. If that's what you need, apply to work with us.