The Power of Referrals in Driving Business Growth with Randy Hardy

The quest for effective growth strategies in business is a constant endeavor. Entrepreneurs and business owners tirelessly explore various avenues to fuel their enterprises, seeking the holy grail of sustainable growth. While modern marketing channels have expanded exponentially with the rise of social media, search engines, and digital advertising, referrals remain a timeless tool that cuts through the noise and establishes genuine connections. They embody the age-old wisdom that "people trust people." In this episode, Steve talks with Randy Hardy, President of Clune & Associates. Randy holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation and has been actively engaged in the investment management and financial planning industry since 1999. Before joining Clune & Associates in 2009, Randy spent 10 years handling business development for Loring Ward.  Randy talks with Steve about how Clune & Associates has doubled its client base and how its assets under management have increased more than fivefold. He also speaks about the secret to his business growth and shares a handful of models and concepts he uses to keep our minds focused on what matters.   Key Takeaways [01:59] - An overview of Randy's career and motivation for establishing his firm. [05:14] - How Randy transitioned from product to consulting in investment management. [09:32] - How Clune & Associates has evolved over the years. [13:00] - The role referrals play in Randy's business growth. [14:24] - How Randy gets referrals for his services. [15:18] - Randy's strategy for managing his business. [19:57] - What Randy's discovery process looks like. [26:27] - How Randy handles referrals that aren't right for him. [31:12] - What Randy looks for in a team member. [33:33] - How Randy maintains work-life harmony. [38:09] - What brings Randy joy and excitement at work.   Quotes [11:03] - "When you're buying a business, it's a marriage. And like any marriage, there are ups and downs. The relationship needs to be built on commitment, trust, and respect." ~ Randy Hardy [14:43] - "I have never asked for a referral. I don't feel comfortable doing it. But I've always made myself available to help centers of influence who reach out to me or an accountant to bounce an idea off me. That comes back to me in spades." ~ Randy Hardy [16:41] - "If I am referred to a potential client, but they aren't a fit, I still invest my time in them. That doesn't lead directly to a client today, but it might at some point in the future." ~ Randy Hardy   Links  Randy Hardy on LinkedIn Clune & Associates Eileen Clune John Burns   Connect with our hosts Steve on LinkedIn Buckingham Strategic Partners   Subscribe and stay in touch Apple Podcasts Spotify Steve on LinkedIn Follow Buckingham Strategic Partners on Twitter   Disclosure For informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as specific investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Certain information is based upon third party data which may become outdated or otherwise superseded without notice. Third party information is deemed to be reliable, but its accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed. Some analysis presented is based off current economic information and may become outdated or irrelevant without notice. Individuals should speak with their qualified financial professional based on his or her unique circumstances. Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) nor any other federal or state agency have approved, determined the accuracy, or confirmed the adequacy of this podcast. © 2022 Buckingham Wealth Partners, LLC. Buckingham Strategic Wealth, LLC and Buckingham Strategic Partners, LLC (collectively, Buckingham Wealth Partners)