Referral

Customer referral in foreign trade refers to a marketing method in which existing customers, partners, or members of your business network proactively introduce or recommend your company, products, or services to potential buyers, thereby generating new business opportunities. Unlike ordinary advertising or cold calls, it is based on trust endorsement and usually has a higher conversion rate. Use cases include: satisfied old customers proactively recommending you to their peers or suppliers; obtaining referrals through industry associations, chambers of commerce, and other channels; third-party introductions on B2B platforms or social media. Notes: referrals usually require maintaining good relationships and giving the referrer thanks or incentives at the right time (such as commissions or discounts), but avoid over-commercialization that damages trust; at the same time, ensure that the referred customer matches your target market. Similar to 'referral introduction,' but 'customer referral' emphasizes that it is initiated by existing customers; unlike 'agent,' the referrer generally does not participate in subsequent transaction negotiations and only provides an introduction. In foreign trade correspondence, it is often started with 'Referred by...' or 'On the recommendation of...'.