How to Get Referrals Without Asking

Will, EnableUs Community

Hey everyone, welcome back to the EnableUs Community Podcast. I'm Will, and I'm here with Winter. Today, we're diving into something that honestly, I reckon gets overlooked way too often—referrals. Not the kind you chase, but the ones that just, you know, happen because you’re doing things right.

Winter, EnableUs Community

Yeah, absolutely. I mean, if you ask most NDIS providers what their best source of new participants is, it’s almost never ads or, like, fancy flyers. It’s always word of mouth. And I get it—when you’re making decisions that affect your life or your family, you want to hear from someone you trust, not just a catchy slogan.

Will, EnableUs Community

Exactly. I remember this one participant—let’s call her Sarah—she and her family were so overwhelmed by all the options out there. But what made the difference? Her Support Coordinator just raved about EnableUs. That one recommendation, it just cut through all the noise. They didn’t even look at our website until after they’d already decided to meet us. It’s wild how much weight a trusted voice carries.

Winter, EnableUs Community

That’s such a good point. And it’s not just families, right? Support Coordinators, Plan Managers—they all talk. If you’re reliable and you genuinely care, people notice. It’s like, you do a great job for one person, and suddenly you’re getting calls from their friends or their network. It’s that ripple effect.

Will, EnableUs Community

Yeah, and I think sometimes we forget that NDIS decisions are so personal. It’s not just about ticking boxes. It’s about trust. If someone’s vouching for you, that’s worth more than any ad spend, honestly.

Winter, EnableUs Community

Totally. And the best part is, you don’t have to be pushy or awkward about it. If you’re doing the right things, those referrals just start to come in naturally.

Winter, EnableUs Community

So, let’s talk about what actually gets people talking. I think it starts with just doing what you say you’ll do. Like, showing up on time, following through, being clear about what’s happening and when. It sounds basic, but honestly, it’s rare enough that people remember it.

Will, EnableUs Community

Yeah, and I mean, it’s not rocket science, right? But it’s amazing how many providers drop the ball on the basics. If you’re reliable, people trust you. And that’s when they start telling others, “Hey, you should work with these guys.”

Winter, EnableUs Community

And making it easy to work with you—oh my gosh, that’s huge. I know a provider who, every time a participant hit a milestone, they’d do a little celebration. Nothing massive, just a card or a shoutout. But it made the participant feel seen, and their family was so touched. Next thing you know, that family’s telling everyone at their local group about this provider. It’s those little things that stick.

Will, EnableUs Community

Yeah, and even just being organised—like, having a simple intake form, or being quick to reply to emails. I know it sounds boring, but when you make life easier for Support Coordinators or families, they remember. And they talk about it. I’ve had people say, “I heard you’re the one who actually answers the phone.” It’s kind of funny, but it matters.

Winter, EnableUs Community

It really does. And I think, too, when you focus on real outcomes—helping someone reach a goal, or just making them feel supported—that’s what people want to share. It’s not about being perfect, it’s about being present and consistent.

Will, EnableUs Community

Yeah, and honestly, if you’re asking yourself, “Would I refer someone to me?” and the answer’s yes, you’re probably on the right track.

Will, EnableUs Community

So, let’s say you’re doing all that—how do you make sure people don’t forget about you? I reckon it’s about those light-touch reminders. Like, you don’t have to spam people, but a quick update now and then, or sharing a little win on Facebook, just keeps you in their minds.

Winter, EnableUs Community

Yeah, and it doesn’t have to be anything fancy. Maybe a monthly email with your availability, or a story about a participant’s progress—obviously with their permission. It’s just about being visible, so when someone asks, “Do you know anyone?” your name pops up first.

Will, EnableUs Community

And when someone does refer you, say thank you. Like, actually say it. I got this handwritten card from a family once, just thanking me for helping their son settle into a new routine. I still have it, honestly. It meant so much. And it made me want to keep going that extra mile, you know?

Winter, EnableUs Community

That’s beautiful. I think people underestimate how far a genuine thank you goes. Whether it’s a quick email, a note, or just a phone call, it makes people feel valued. And it’s not just about getting more referrals—it’s about building real relationships, not just transactional ones.

Will, EnableUs Community

Yeah, and that’s what keeps you top of mind. If you’re authentic, if you care, people remember. And they want to help you succeed, too.

Winter, EnableUs Community

Alright, I think that’s a good place to wrap up for today. If you’re listening and you want to grow your participant base, just remember—it’s about trust, consistency, and genuine connection. The rest will follow.

Will, EnableUs Community

Couldn’t have said it better. Thanks for tuning in, everyone. We’ll be back soon with more ways to help you connect with the right participants. Winter, always a pleasure.

Winter, EnableUs Community

You too, Will. Thanks everyone, and catch you next time on the EnableUs Community Podcast. Bye!