ChatGPT said: Dana Alfirevic and Frank Agin discuss how service providers can get more referrals through authentic networking and relationship-building strategies.

Ask Better, Get More: Dana Alfirevic & Frank Agin Share Referral Secrets

Hi there,

This Monday on Knowledge Mondays, Dana Alfirevic sits down with Frank Agin to solve a problem every service provider and connector faces: how to ask for referrals without sounding pushy. Frank’s approach is simple, practical, and immediately usable — no scripts, no sleazy tactics, just better relationships that lead to more opportunities.

Watch the quick clips on Instagram — Click on Part 1 and Part 2 — for the short-form takeaways and action steps.

Watch Part 1 on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPerNpHgVL1/

Watch Part 2 on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPv7k2aEVJH/

Click here to Watch full episode: youtube.com/watch?si=rvwNBI1e43NHkfL4&syclid=d3n8q6uk55rs73a6d50g&v=34DdF8NjAaQ&feature=youtu.be

What you’ll learn:

  •  Foundation of the ask — Do useful work first; when you’ve already helped people, asking for referrals feels natural and fair.
  • Clarity is crucial — Say exactly who you’re looking for and what outcome you deliver; vague asks fail.
  • Handle blanks with patience — If someone says “I don’t know,” don’t press; you’ve planted a seed that can sprout later.
  • The So What mantra — Some will help, some won’t; don’t lose momentum over the ones who don’t.
  • What a valuable contact looks like — Someone willing to go out of their way to introduce you. 
  • Vetting over time — Test engagement; people who only respond when you reach out aren’t true givers.
  • Engagement matters — Small actions like timely emails or quick intros are real networking work.
  • Networking goal — Fill your life with people who actively want to be in it so you stop worrying about the rest.

Quick action steps you can use today

  • Write one specific referral ask that includes the ideal person, problem they have, and a one-line outcome you deliver.
  • Email three past clients or connections you’ve helped and ask if they know someone who fits that description.
  • Track responses: flag those who respond or introduce others — they’re your givers.
  •  Stop following up beyond one polite nudge; invest your energy in engaged contacts.

Keep this simple rule top of mind: help first, ask clearly, and move on from the rest. That’s how referrals stop feeling like a favor and start feeling like the natural next step in a relationship. Best,Dana

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