The Birth Professional’s Ultimate Referral System and How to Get a Steady Stream of Clients Without Social Media
What if you could book clients consistently—without chasing Instagram likes, stressing over algorithms, or paying for ads?
For birth professionals, word-of-mouth referrals have always been a powerful way to get clients. But most doulas, midwives, and postpartum professionals don’t have a referral system—they just hope past clients and colleagues will send people their way.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to create a repeatable, organized referral system so you can get a steady stream of ideal clients—without relying on social media.
1. Understanding the Psychology of Referrals
Referrals aren’t random. People refer when they:
Trust you and your work.
Feel appreciated as a client or partner.
Know exactly who to send your way.
Your goal is to make referrals natural and effortless for others. That starts with building strong relationships, showing your expertise, and making it easy for people to refer you.
2. Building a Powerful Referral Network
Referrals don’t just come from past clients—they also come from trusted professionals who serve the same audience.
Who Should Be in Your Referral Network?
✅ Midwives & OBs
✅ Chiropractors
✅ Pelvic floor therapists
✅ Lactation consultants
✅ Birth photographers
✅ Prenatal yoga instructors
How to Reach Out to Potential Referral Partners
When connecting with someone, don’t just say, “Hey, send me clients!” Instead, lead with value.
Here’s an email script you can use:
Subject: Supporting Each Other’s Clients
Hi [Name],
I love the work you do with [mention something specific]. I’d love to connect and see how we can support each other’s clients! Many of my clients ask for recommendations for [their specialty], and I’d love to have you as a trusted referral.
Would you be open to a quick chat to see how we can collaborate?
Looking forward to connecting!
[Your Name]
3. How to Ask for Referrals (Without Sounding Salesy)
When to Ask for Client Referrals
⭐ After a successful birth or postpartum experience
⭐ When a client shares positive feedback
⭐ At the end of your contract (with a thank-you message)
How to Ask Naturally
Instead of “Can you send me referrals?” try:
“I loved working with you! If you know anyone looking for [your service], I’d love for you to pass along my info.”
Client Referral Request Message
Email / DM Template:
Hi [Client’s Name],
I absolutely loved supporting you during [birth/postpartum]. If you ever know someone looking for a [your service], I’d love for you to pass along my info! I take on a limited number of clients each month, and personal referrals mean the world to me.
Thank you so much!
[Your Name]
4. Tracking Your Referrals (So You Actually Know What’s Working)
Most birth pros get referrals randomly—but when you track them, you can improve your system.
How to Track Your Referrals
Use a simple Google Sheet or Airtable.
Track who referred whom and when.
Note if the referral converted into a client.
👉 Get my free referral tracking spreadsheet inside The Vault!
5. Creating an Incentive-Based Referral Program
Want clients to refer you even more? Give them a reason to!
Simple Referral Incentives:
✅ A $25 discount on a future service
✅ A small thank-you gift (e.g., coffee gift card, self-care item)
✅ VIP early access to new offerings
Example Message:
"Hey [Client Name], as a thank-you for referring [New Client], I’d love to offer you [$25 off a future service / a small gift]. I appreciate you!"
6. Leveraging Testimonials to Attract More Referrals
Testimonials do the selling for you. Instead of just collecting them, use them strategically to attract more referrals.
How to Ask for a Testimonial
Subject: Quick Favor ❤️
Hi [Client’s Name],
I loved working with you during [birth/postpartum]! If you have a moment, I’d love a short testimonial about your experience. Your words help other families feel confident in choosing me.
You can answer these questions if it helps:
What was your biggest fear before working with me?
How did I support you?
What was your biggest takeaway from our time together?
Thank you so much!
[Your Name]
7. Keeping Your Referral System Strong Over Time
Referrals aren’t a one-time thing—you need to nurture your network!
How to Stay Top-of-Mind:
✅ Check in with referral partners every 3-6 months.🔗 Get instant access to the swipe files
✅ Send handwritten thank-you notes or small gifts.
✅ Feature your referral partners on your website or social media.
By maintaining strong relationships, you’ll turn referrals into a steady, predictable stream of clients.
Your Referral System Swipe Files
I’ve put together a ready-to-use collection of swipe files to make referrals effortless. These include:
✅ Done-for-you scripts for asking for referrals without feeling awkward
✅ Testimonial request templates to get powerful client reviews
✅ Outreach emails for building referral partnerships
✅ A referral tracking spreadsheet to keep everything organized
These scripts are designed to be plug-and-play—just copy, personalize, and send!
