Many of us are quick to share the names of businesses we have negative experiences with, but it is also important to share positive experiences as well. Also, know which of the businesses you frequent offer rewards for referrals. Many insurance companies, doctors, dentists, etc offer tokens of appreciation for referrals. I was aware that my insurance company did, but was pleasantly surprised when I checked my mail today and found a $10 gift card to our local grocer for a referral I had sent to our pediatric dentist. Which leads to why I suggest sharing good experiences as well. I did not intentionally "refer" this friend to them, but something I said caused her to go there and tell her I sent them. Now that I know they offer these referral gifts, I will be certain to more freely share their name with others and be sure to ask that they tell them who sent them. It also has started me thinking about what other businesses I go to offer these "gifts". Don't get me wrong, I will not refer someone to a place I do not like nor will I withhold a referral simply because the business does not offer a referral gift. I just think I may speak a little more freely if I know there is an incentive involved.
On another note, for those of you who may have missed the commercial during the Superbowl, Denny's is offering a free Grand Slam to "everyone in America" tomorrow from 6AM-2PM. That's 2 bacon, 2 sausage links, 2 pancakes, and 2 eggs (cooked to style), per person for free. You just can't beat that.