Although Westfield Creative co-founder Emily Ryan still considers her Mailchimp marketing firm “a micro-agency” (just 2 are on her payroll), her business has grown exponentially over the last few years. Recently, she even landed an Ivy League client, thanks to a referral from fellow Mailchimp partner Marcy Chu. Now, with a steady flow of incoming leads, Emily reflects on why Mailchimp’s tight-knit network of expert marketers was the key to leveling up her business.
We hear you recently landed a great gig thanks to another partner?
Yes! It was huge for us. Another partner was going on maternity leave, and she referred her client—Teachers College, Columbia University—to me. They first hired us to create an email series that would add some oomph to their virtual convocation ceremonies. Since then, we’ve continued to work for them, creating more email campaigns. Having an Ivy League institution in our client roster is helping open more doors.
Wow, that’s incredible!
People underestimate the power of partner referrals—one great referral can really change your business.
Is sharing leads common?
A lot of us have niche skill sets (my business is mostly e-commerce focused). So, I often have work to pass on to other freelancers that isn’t the right fit for us. When I refer a client to another pro partner, I know they’ll be in good hands.
