Forum Discussion

ryaantuttle's avatar
ryaantuttle
Jobber Ambassador
2 months ago

How Referral Systems Are Changing the Home Improvement Game

Referral programs aren’t new, but they’re becoming a huge part of the home improvement world. Homeowners want trusted pros, and contractors want more jobs—referrals make that happen.

Why They Work

People trust word-of-mouth over ads. A referral from a friend or neighbor carries weight, and when companies reward that, it’s a win-win for everyone.

How People Are Using Them

  • Homeowners save money – Discounts or perks for referring friends.
  • Contractors grow their business – More jobs without spending big on ads.
  • Loyalty programs – Earn rewards for multiple referrals.
  • Community referrals – Nextdoor, Facebook groups, and forums are full of trusted recommendations.

Make It Work for You

If you're a contractor, a solid referral program can bring in quality leads without the heavy marketing costs. Try something simple—offer $50 off the next project for both the referrer and the new client when they book. It’s an easy way to keep customers coming back while bringing in new ones who already trust your work.

Are you currently using a referral program with your business? Drop a comment!

5 Replies

  • julie's avatar
    julie
    Jobber Community Team

    Love this! Thanks for sharing, Ryaan. 


    Curious to hear how other businesses are utilizing referral programs. 👀

    • canopyclimber's avatar
      canopyclimber
      Contributor 2

      I had always heard about joining a BNI group but always thought it was a cult that made me only refer members of the group. I decided to join a local chapter and I honestly couldn’t be more impressed with the referrals I’ve been given but also the amazing relationships I’ve built within the group that builds my business out more giving me the ability to offer my clients super solid referrals for other things they need done. I can now solve multiple problems for my clients which builds massive amounts of loyalty. 

      I’ve also received a great influx of additional revenue from my group. On top of all of this, I have gained an enormous amount of knowledge about working ON my business instead of working IN my business. It’s been phenomenal. 

      • WiringByron's avatar
        WiringByron
        Contributor 5

        Absolutely agree, I've been in BNI for about 10 years and I passed 1 million in received revenue a year ago. It's slightly culty but a great cult that refers you haha. I try to really protect my BNI group, you want it to be a group of superstars with large networks but you will constantly have people trying to join that don't have a network, don't put in the work and don't end up referring.. try to keep the standard of entry high!

  • I would love to hear from someone who has these local facebook groups locked down ?? I feel like if you were really on your game that could be a cheap source of leads. Something I need to dig into. Has anyone systemized this or automated it? Thanks. 

    • Mckunz's avatar
      Mckunz
      Contributor 2

      Following here^ I also appreciate your positive experience with BNI