My neighbor is a photographer. The other day, she was telling me how nearly all of her business comes from referrals from friends. Come to think of it, referrals are how I usually get my business as well.
Most people prefer to work with a friend of a friend, rather than a stranger. That is why networking is so important for small businesses - the more people we know, the more business is likely to come our way.
It just makes sense. Small business owners want to make it as easy as possible for clients, friends, and relatives to share our business with their friends and colleagues. One way to do this is with an “email-a-friend” link on the business’ web site.
Read more about email-a-friend.