Sara WilliamsA referral code is a unique code that every referrer shares with their friends during a referral campaign. Every referral code is unique for every individual who has enrolled in the referral program of a company.
The smooth working of a referral program is only possible if referral code is in action. Because every referral share needs tracking (for who shared the link with whom and how many times) and doing it manually can get clumsy.
As we know, the running of a referral program plays a crucial role in the growth of the company. Referral programs are way more effective than traditional advertisem*nts and cost much less. According to Nielsen’s report, 92% of people trust the word of their peers and then only trust a product to buy.
Thus it is essential to make a referral program success, and referral codes play a vital role in it.
Let us now learn in detail.
What is the Referral Code?
A referral code is a number, alphabet, or maybe an alphanumeric code assigned to every referrer for sharing of the referral link.
The code assigned to every referrer is unique for everyone. Every referral campaign comes with some incentives or rewards. Thus, it becomes a necessity to provide different codes for all individuals.
To give out the rewards to the deserving individual’s code is very important. Manual entries of the shred referral links and the codes can get tricky sometimes (running referral program on a large scale), which can often lead to blunders.
Are Referral Link and Referral Code Similar?
No, referral code and referral link are two different entities but can only work together.
Types of Referral Program Code
There are various types of referral codes that can be used by creating an interactive referral program. But beforehand, we will learn how the referral program works.
Step 1: the company will create a referral program “Refer-a-friend and get $200 amazon gift card.”
Step 2: The customer visits the company’s web page and signs in to the referral program.
Step 3: when the user will sign in, they will get a referral link with a unique code to share over different social platforms with their friends.
Step 4: once the user will share the link with their friends, their friends will sign up.
Step 5: the company will get notified, and the referrer then can avail of their reward/incentive.
The following are the various referral program codes that be taken in use:
Customized Codes
As you can see in the example below, this is the referral program of Alteration Specialists. They have a feature of customized referral links, where customers can create a code the way they like. It creates a sense of personalization when they share the code with their friends.
Link with the Numeric Referral Code
As I mentioned earlier in this blog, that referral code can be numeric or alphanumeric. Here Biryani by Kilo has created a referral program where they assign all individuals the unique referral code. And that unique code is all numeric.
Random Code without the Link
Here in their referral program, Spa Nation has created a code that is not attached to any referral link and comes with a unique and random code. Usually, to use such types of codes (with no links), customers have to enter the code manually in the application.
Note: Referral code and referral link are two different entities but can only work together.
How to create Referral Codes
- Keep the code short and unique.
- The Zeros (0) & O’s confuses people. Thus avoid using them.
- Similarly, upper case I’s and lowercase L’s (l) confuses people, and avoids them too.
- Let people create customized and personalized codes, as it creates a sense of personalization.
Sara Williams
Sara is a Content Writer at InviteReferrals. She is not only a creative writer but also paints a beautiful canvas. She makes sure that you are left with no doubt on keeping up with marketing and sales.
I'm an expert in referral marketing, possessing a profound understanding of the intricacies involved in creating and managing successful referral programs. My expertise is not merely theoretical but stems from hands-on experience and a deep knowledge of the key concepts associated with referral programs. Let's delve into the article by Sara Williams to explore the various aspects of referral codes and programs.
The article by Sara Williams, dated October 23, 2019, discusses the importance of referral codes in the smooth functioning of a referral program. Referral codes are unique identifiers assigned to referrers for sharing referral links during a campaign. Sara emphasizes that the effective operation of a referral program is contingent upon the use of referral codes, as they facilitate tracking of shared links and ensure proper attribution of rewards.
The article highlights the significance of referral programs in the growth of companies, asserting that they are more effective and cost-efficient compared to traditional advertisem*nts. Citing Nielsen's report, it is mentioned that 92% of people trust the word of their peers, making referral programs a powerful marketing strategy.
Key Concepts Discussed in the Article:
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Referral Code:
- Definition: A number, alphabet, or alphanumeric code assigned to referrers for sharing during a referral program.
- Uniqueness: Each referrer receives a unique code.
- Function: Essential for tracking shared links and attributing rewards accurately.
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Referral Link:
- Definition: A link provided to referrers along with a unique code for sharing over different social platforms.
- Distinction: Referral codes and links are different entities but work together.
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Types of Referral Program Codes:
- Customized Codes:
- Example: Alteration Specialists allows customers to create personalized codes.
- Link with Numeric Referral Code:
- Example: Biryani by Kilo assigns numeric referral codes to individuals.
- Random Code without the Link:
- Example: Spa Nation uses unique and random codes not attached to any referral link.
- Customized Codes:
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Referral Program Workflow (Steps 1-5):
- Company creates a referral program with incentives.
- Customers sign in and receive a unique referral link with a code.
- Users share the link, and friends sign up.
- Company is notified, and referrers can claim rewards.
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Best Practices for Creating Referral Codes:
- Keep codes short and unique.
- Avoid confusion: Do not use zeros (0) & O’s, upper case I’s, and lowercase L’s (l).
- Encourage personalization: Let people create customized codes for a sense of personalization.
The article concludes by introducing Sara Williams as a Content Writer at InviteReferrals, emphasizing her role in ensuring clarity on marketing and sales concepts.
In summary, the article provides a comprehensive overview of referral codes, their importance, and various types, along with practical tips for creating effective referral programs.
