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Asking for referrals feels awkward when you think of it as imposing on your clients. But clients who've had great experiences working with you actually want to help, and they want to connect people they care about with service providers they trust. The problem isn't the ask; it's that most freelancers don't have a system for when and how to do it.​

In this episode, Treasa and guest co-host Ed Deason break down how to build referrals into your business process so it feels natural instead of forced. You'll learn the exact timing for asking (including why the project wrap-up email is ideal), the language that makes it feel authentic, and why reaching back out to past clients quarterly can fill your schedule faster than any other marketing strategy. Ed brings his coaching perspective on why people actually enjoy making referrals, and Treasa shares the surprising benefit most people miss: referred clients don't need to be sold, they show up ready to work with you.​

WE ALSO TALKED ABOUT

• Why referrals should be part of your standard workflow
• The exact language Treasa uses and why it works​
• Why you should only ask clients you genuinely enjoyed working with
• The quarterly check-in strategy for one-off clients that keeps your pipeline full​
• What makes referred clients easier to work with
• Why "marketing you" doesn't work, and why authentic, sincere asks do​
• The one type of client you should never ask for referrals (and why)​

About Ed Deason
Ed Deason is a business coach specializing in working with founders and entrepreneurs ready to scale, pivot, and build their ideal businesses. With over 15 years' experience and an MBA, Ed's coaching has helped clients gain clarity, confidence, and achieve real results.​

Connect with Ed:

• Deason Coaching
• LinkedIn

About Treasa Edmond

Treasa Edmond is a content strategist, business coach, and podcast host who helps freelancers and consultants transition to confident business leaders. She's been referral-based for five years, rarely needing to prospect for new clients, and teaches practical frameworks for pricing strategy, client boundaries, and business systems through her coaching programs and the Boss Responses podcast. Her goal is to help you build the business you need so you can live the life you want.
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Connect with Treasa:

• Coaching Programs - Work with Treasa 1-on-1 or join a mastermind
• LinkedIn - Connect and follow for daily insights

Resources & Links

Get the Free Referral Guide:
Treasa's complete guide covering when to ask for referrals, how to do it, and the exact language to use so it feels authentic and professional.
→ Download the Referral Guide

Subscribe to Boss Responses Newsletter:
Weekly frameworks, templates, and strategic guidance for freelancers and consultants ready to lead their businesses.
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Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to listen to Boss Responses. This podcast is a passion project that comes from years of helping freelancers shape a business that supports the lifestyle they want.

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