Step 1: Ask your customers

"Thanks, Ted, we really appreciate your business. By the way, would you happen to know any other business owners who might need our services?"

The best time to ask is also after you've helped someone and they're really satisfied with your service.

Step 2: Ask people who turn you down

"Since you're not interested at the moment, Ted, would you happen to know anyone else who might need our services?"

Just because someone isn't an ideal client doesn't mean they won't recommend a friend who might be. It never hurts to ask.

Step 3: Pay a referral bonus

"Hey Ted, I don't know if we've mentioned this yet, but if you refer any friends, we'll give you a $50 gift card to Jack's Steak House. You can either give us their number or tell them to mention you when they sign up."

It never hurts to incentivize the referral process since sometimes people need a slight bit of motivation to recommend you to their friends.

These are the three things I'd recommend, and it all starts with not being shy about asking for what you want, especially when you've already helped someone and they're really satisfied with your services.