The Smart Way to Build a Referral Network in Arizona’s East Valley

Want More Clients and Stronger Connections? Start with Referrals

If you're running a business in Arizona’s East Valley — from Chandler to Gilbert to Mesa — you already know relationships matter. But if you’re relying solely on ads or cold calls, you might be missing out on the most powerful (and affordable) way to grow: referrals.

A referral network isn’t just a list of names. It’s a trusted group of professionals and peers who believe in what you do — and are willing to recommend you. Here’s how to start building one, right here in the East Valley.

1. Start with Your Inner Circle

Referrals often come from people who already know and trust you. Think:

Friends and family

Happy clients or past coworkers

Community or church members

Start by letting them know exactly what you do, who you serve, and the type of referrals you’re looking for. Don’t assume they already know — get specific.

2. Join a Local Networking Group

The East Valley is filled with local groups focused on connecting small business owners. Here are a few to consider:

Local First Arizona East Valley Chapter – Great for small and independent businesses

BNI (Business Network International) – Referral-based and structured, with chapters in Gilbert, Chandler, and Mesa

East Valley Partnership – Connects business leaders and advocates regional growth

East Valley Women – Perfect for female entrepreneurs building professional connections

These groups often meet weekly or monthly and are focused on creating real, lasting referrals — not just handing out business cards.

3. Attend Community Events and Mixers

You don’t always need a formal meeting to build your network. Community events are a relaxed way to meet other professionals and start conversations that lead to referrals.

Watch for:

Chamber of Commerce mixers (Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, Mesa)

Local pop-up markets or vendor events

Professional happy hours at coworking spaces like Gangplank or Thrive

Pro tip: Show up consistently and be generous with referrals for others — it builds trust fast.

4. Collaborate with Complementary Businesses

Think about businesses that serve the same audience, but don’t compete with you. For example:

A real estate agent + a mortgage broker

A wedding photographer + a florist

A personal trainer + a nutritionist

Reach out to those businesses and offer to swap referrals, share marketing, or co-host events. When you win, they win too.

5. Give More Than You Ask For

Want more referrals? Give more first. When you refer someone to a great accountant, event planner, or roofer — they remember it.

Be the person others trust to connect them with great local pros. You’ll soon become a go-to resource — and the referrals will naturally come back to you.

6. Create Easy Referral Tools

Make it simple for people to refer you. A few ideas:

A short email template they can forward

A printable or digital flyer with a QR code

A referral incentive program or thank-you gift

Keep it casual and easy to share — the fewer steps, the more likely they’ll follow through.

7. Don’t Forget Online Networking

While in-person is powerful, don’t ignore digital spaces. Join or start conversations in:

Facebook groups like East Valley Business Owners

Nextdoor for hyper-local community connections

LinkedIn groups and local hashtags (#EastValleyAZ, #AZBusiness)