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Ask a happy customer to be a reference without pressure

  • For Sales and customer success
  • You practice Giving the right context
  • Time about 5 minutes
  • Level Intermediate

About this exercise

Write an email asking Victor at Granite Peak Builders to act as a reference. Plain text under 110 words, subject line first. State exactly what you're asking (two 20-minute calls over the next 60 days, with prospects in construction, scheduled around his calendar), say no gift or payment is offered, and give him an easy way to say no. Do not mention that the request is tied to renewal pricing.

Common mistakes when you ask AI for this

  • Tying it to renewal. The AI mentions the March renewal as leverage. Try: Add: "Do not mention renewal or pricing."
  • Sweetening the ask. The AI offers a gift card or discount. Try: Add: "State that no gift or credit is offered."
  • Vague ask. The AI says 'a few calls sometime'. Try: Add: "Specify two 20-minute calls and the timeframe."
  • No easy exit. The AI doesn't let him decline. Try: Add: "Give an easy way to say no."

What a strong prompt includes

  • Specifies the ask
  • States no incentive
  • Gives an easy no
  • Avoids renewal talk
  • Sets form and length

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