AEP is one of the busiest times of the year, but it’s also one of the best opportunities to generate referrals that can help grow your business long after enrollment season ends. The most successful agents don’t wait for referrals to happen. They consistently ask for them and make it easy for clients to connect them with friends and family.

The good news? Asking for referrals doesn’t have to feel awkward or salesy.

Start with Great Service

Referrals begin long before you ask. Clients who feel informed, appreciated, and well-served are far more likely to recommend you to others. Follow through on your promises, stay in touch throughout the year, and look for opportunities to go above and beyond expectations.

Pick the Right Moment

Timing matters. Some of the best times to ask for a referral are:

• After you’ve helped a client enroll in a plan they’re confident about
• During a follow-up call when a client expresses appreciation for your help
• At annual review appointments
• After you’ve resolved a complex issue or answered important questions
• Any time a client tells you they’ve had a great experience working with you

When clients are happy, don’t limit the conversation to referrals. That’s also the perfect time to ask for a Google or Facebook review. Positive reviews help build trust with prospective clients and often validate referrals before someone even reaches out to you. Encourage satisfied clients to share a few words about their experience and make it easy by providing a direct review link.

Keep It Simple

Instead of asking, “Do you know anyone who needs insurance?” try something more specific:

“If you know someone who is turning 65, retiring, moving, or reviewing their coverage options, I’d be happy to help them the same way I’ve helped you.”

Specific examples help clients recognize referral opportunities when they arise

Make Referrals Easy

Most people are willing to recommend someone they trust, but they need an easy way to do it. That’s why we’ve gathered downloadable referral cards you can print, keep in your office, include in enrollment packets, or hand out after appointments. Giving clients something tangible makes it easier for them to share your information with friends and family.

You can also include your Google review link or Facebook page on your referral cards, email signature, website, and follow-up communications. The easier you make it for clients to refer you or leave a review, the more likely they are to take action.

Remember: Referrals Aren’t Just for AEP

While AEP creates plenty of opportunities for referral conversations, referrals should be part of your year-round growth strategy. Life events such as turning 65, retirement, relocating, or changes in health coverage happen every month of the year. Staying connected with your clients helps ensure that when friends, family members, or coworkers ask for a recommendation, your name is the first one they think of.

One Simple Goal

This AEP, make it a habit to ask every satisfied client for one of two things:

• A referral to someone who could benefit from your help
• A Google or Facebook review

Many will be happy to do both. All you have to do is ask.

Download your referral cards below and start more referral conversations this season. The clients you’ve already helped may be your best source of future business.