---
title: "Episode 101: How to Build a Referral Programme"
description: We discuss how to systematically build and manage a referral network for business growth. Drawing from their experiences and recent visit to HubSpot's Dublin headquarters, they explore the importance of relationship-building and structured approaches to referral partnerships.
image: https://www.smegrowthpodcast.com/hubfs/Landscape%20(2)-1.png
---

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###### 2 min read

# Episode 101: How to Build a Referral Programme

By: [Pete Johnson](https://www.smegrowthpodcast.com/episodes/author/pete-johnson) on  Jan 2, 2025, 3:06:28 PM

[The SME Growth Podcast](https://www.smegrowthpodcast.com/episodes/tag/the-sme-growth-podcast)

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In this episode, Dave Parry and Richard from Wellmeadow discuss how to systematically build and manage a referral network for business growth. Drawing from their experiences and recent visit to HubSpot's Dublin headquarters, they explore the importance of relationship-building and structured approaches to referral partnerships.

Head over to our YouTube channel and subscribe for exclusive content and a chance to see the fully clothed versions of our episodes: [@TheSMEGrowthPodcast.](https://www.youtube.com/@TheSMEGrowthPodcast)

 

You can listen to the full episode [here](https://youtu.be/1PneNP8PjJA?si=q8RQz0iIEwqrXA5N)

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##### Listen to the full episode now

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## Key Topics Discussed

- Systematic Approach to Referrals: Understanding how to structure and manage referral networks effectively
- Types of Referral Partners: From customers and ex-employees to LinkedIn connections and business service providers
- Partner Programme Insights: Learnings from HubSpot's comprehensive partner relationship management
- Face-to-Face vs Digital: The resurgence of in-person relationship building in business
- Network Evaluation: Methods for measuring and quantifying referral network effectiveness

## Quotes to Remember

"If 95% of your business comes from referrals, why are you spending all your efforts on the 5%?"

"You've got to have confidence that what you're referring is of value because it's your name that goes alongside that referral."

"The simple act of sharing a coffee or meal - that's how relationships are built around the table."

## Top Takeaways

- Identify Your Network: Map out potential referral partners and create an ideal referral profile
- Systemise Relationships: Implement tiered approaches for managing different levels of referral partners
- Build Trust Through Education: Ensure partners understand your business and can represent it accurately
- Measure and Evaluate: Track the quality and value of referrals while maintaining relationship focus
- Balance Systems with Personal Touch: Combine structured processes with genuine relationship-building

Head over to our YouTube channel and subscribe to The SME Growth Podcast. Share your thoughts and business challenges in the comments section of our community page: [https://www.youtube.com/@TheSMEGrowthPodcast/community](https://www.youtube.com/@TheSMEGrowthPodcast/community)

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In this enlightening episode of The SME Growth Podcast, Dave Parry from Wellmeadow sits down with...

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## [Episode 92: What is your customer acquisition strategy?](https://www.smegrowthpodcast.com/episodes/episode-92-what-is-your-customer-acquisition-strategy)

In this episode of the SME Growth podcast, Rich and Dave from Wellmeadow dive deeper into customer...

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In this episode, Dave Parry and Richard Buckle explore the unique challenges faced by manufacturing...

##### Who we are

Who we are

Dave Parry and Rich Buckle are founders/directors of Wellmeadow.  Having chaired over 3,000 board meetings, and worked with over 100+ companies, they wanted to share their knowledge with a wider audience. The SME Growth Podcast is a vehicle to share insights and practical tips with people working at all levels of SME businesses.

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Growth is often associated with doing more: winning more customers, launching more services and...

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