I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine. One hand washes the other. You get what you give.

Referrals are an easy way to grow your business.

Doesn’t it make sense that if you’re good at what you do, referrals should come easy to you? Some folks may automatically refer you to their friends and colleagues, but others may need an added incentive.

When you meet someone who could refer business to you, offer to pay them a percentage of any sales you make from their referrals. Get to know them first. Otherwise your offer may border on creepy.

When you finish a project that came from a referral, pay the person who made the referral immediately. That’ll encourage them to refer more people to you. When a prospect contacts you, don’t forget to ask how they heard about your company.

Another option is to barter services in exchange for the referral. Let’s say you’re a Web designer and you need furniture or supplies. You could offer to create a site for a furniture retailer or office supply company. Keep in mind that bartered products are taxable. Check with your accountant to make sure you pay the right amount of taxes.

Cross-promotions are another incentive for referrals. If you’re sending a mass e-mail to your clients about your products or services, include information about someone else’s company. Ask the person whose information you included in your mass e-mail to include your information in one of their mass mailings.