---
title: Referral Programs
description: I'm betting big that a shift from channels to networks is upon us.
image: https://www.tackgtm.com/hubfs/4O4A8324-X4.jpg
---

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# Referral Programs

I'm betting big that a shift from channels to networks is upon us.

[Mark Kilens](https://www.tackgtm.com/blog/author/mark-kilens)

 Feb 3, 2025

---

I'm betting big that a shift from channels to networks is upon us. Sure, we will keep using different communication channels to learn about new products and buy them.

But, HOW and WHERE we learn about these products is shifting in front of our eyes. 

That's why I'm a big believer in referral programs. Here are my favorite five. 

**1. Direct Referral Programs:** Your existing customers directly refer new clients. This is the most traditional type.

**2. Partner Referral Programs:** You partner with complementary businesses who refer clients to you, and vice versa.

**3. Affiliate Programs:** You incentivize affiliates (creators, influencers, etc.) to promote your products/services and refer customers.

**4. Customer Advocacy Programs:** You identify and nurture your most enthusiastic customers, turning them into brand advocates who actively refer others.

**5. Employee Referral Programs:** Your employees refer qualified candidates for open positions or new clients for your business.

My recommendation is pick the one that best fits your business model and your product, and test it out. Set clear goals for the test and make sure there's someone accountable to running the program. 

## Similar posts

<https://www.tackgtm.com/blog/warm-outbound>

### [Warm Outbound](https://www.tackgtm.com/blog/warm-outbound)

Warm outbound is a process of identifying people who have shown some interest or intent, but have yet to raise their hand for a meeting.

 Mark Kilens  Feb 17, 2025

<https://www.tackgtm.com/blog/develop-your-people>

### [Develop Your People](https://www.tackgtm.com/blog/develop-your-people)

From the day I was promoted to a people manager, I made career development for my team a top priority.

 Mark Kilens  Feb 14, 2025

<https://www.tackgtm.com/blog/grow-an-audience-build-a-community-and-delight-customers>

### [Grow an Audience, Build a Community, and Delight Customers](https://www.tackgtm.com/blog/grow-an-audience-build-a-community-and-delight-customers)

Marketers have lost their way a bit. All of the fancy tech and growth hacks of the last 20 years have distracted us from what truly matters. 

 Mark Kilens  Dec 23, 2024

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