Episode 31

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Published on:

9th Apr 2025

Building a Structured COI Referral System That Actually Works (Tiffany Charles)

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Are you struggling to generate high-quality client referrals? Wondering how to build productive relationships with centers of influence (COIs) that actually lead to new business?

In this episode, Tiffany Charles, Chief Growth Officer at Destiny Capital, reveals her proven system for COI referral marketing that generated 18 new high-value clients last year. From identifying potential partners to nurturing relationships that consistently deliver qualified prospects, Tiffany shares her step-by-step approach to building a referral network that drives predictable growth.

Key topics we explore include:

► How to structure a 3-meeting process that turns casual connections into committed referral partners

► Why focusing on 5-7 quality COI relationships is more effective than casting a wide net

► How to maintain professional boundaries and avoid the "friend zone" that kills productivity

► What to do with unqualified referrals to preserve both client and COI relationships

► Which unexpected professionals make excellent referral partners beyond attorneys and CPAs

Whether you're just starting to build your COI network or looking to improve your existing referral relationships, this episode provides a clear roadmap for creating a sustainable growth strategy.

Tune in to learn how to transform your approach to referral marketing and create a steady stream of ideal clients without the constant hustle of digital marketing.

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About the Podcast

Advisor Marketing Made Simple
Ever wish financial advisor marketing was easier? Tired of experimenting without results? Craving simple strategies that actually work? Press play and take notes – we’re about to level up how you market your financial services.

Hey there! We’re Kendra and Taylor 👋… two marketing professionals with decades of real-life experience sharing proven strategies from two (very!) different perspectives. Taylor, as an advisor who tripled his revenue in the last three years, and Kendra, as an agency owner implementing successful marketing plans for growth-focused advisory firms.

Every Wednesday, we discuss successful marketing strategies in a simple, relatable, and practical way. We also feature real advisors on-air, troubleshooting their marketing challenges and providing solutions LIVE, so you can learn from real-world examples.

Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, each episode will help you improve your marketing and grow your business – without the guesswork or frustration.

About your hosts

Taylor Schulte

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Taylor Schulte, CFP® is the founder of Define Financial, a fee-only retirement planning firm with over $225M in assets under management.

In addition, he is the co-founder of The AGC Community, co-host of Kitces Summits, and host of two Apple Top 100 podcasts: The Stay Wealthy Retirement Show and Experiments in Advisor Marketing.

Kendra Wright

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Kendra Wright is the founder of Rebel Media, an agency dedicated to helping financial firms accelerate their growth. Before financial services, she worked in the music industry, marketing for icons like Willie Nelson, Motley Crue, and Matchbox Twenty.

Her superpower as a full-stack marketer is her ability to swiftly grasp the big picture and create practical action plans advisors can easily put to use, no matter their experience level.