Networking is an excellent way to bring in new business. But if all you’re doing is running to events and luncheons all week, it’s time to harness the power of Facebook to bring in more referrals.

1) Connect after networking. When you meet someone new, you typically exchange business cards. But it can sometimes be awkward to know what to do with them after the fact. Unless the person specifically asked for a quote, you don’t really have a reason to contact them—until now.

When you get back to the office, take that stack of cards and put them to good use. Write a simple email to each person you met. Let them know that you enjoyed meeting them and would like to keep in touch through Facebook—and include a link to your profile.

Here’s how this works. By connecting on Facebook, you’ll get to know one another much faster. You know if they have kids or a favorite pet. At the same time, they’ll learn more about your agency. When they have a rate increase or buy a new house, your name is much more recognizeable and likely to earn a referral.

2) Share your referral rewards program on Facebook. Referral rewards are a very popular marketing tool. If you’re not using one, the concept is simple: Every time someone refers someone to your agency for a quote, they get a reward like a gift card or an entry into a monthly contest.

The great thing about referral rewards is they are highly social and provide the perfect opportunity to gain Facebook “shares.” Here are a few ways to incorporate your rewards program on your page:

• Post photos of winners. When someone wins your monthly drawing, ask them to stop by to pick up their reward and snap a photo. Then post the photo on your page—social “proof” to your followers that you really do give out rewards and that others are referring their friends.

• Mention your program on a regular basis in your status updates. People always want to know “what’s in it for them.” When you ask for referrals, make sure you take the opportunity to show how you reward them and what they mean to your agency.

• Post a thank-you message. When a client sends a referral, take just a moment to publicly thank them on your Facebook page. Recognition makes people feel good—and provides more social proof to your other followers.

Remember, you’re already filling up your friends list with those new networking connections. They will see your clients referring business and the great way that you value and reward them for it, which will help them spread the word about you even faster.

3) Involve your staff. If you can create more referrals and drive new business through networking and referral rewards, why not multiply your efforts? Have each of your licensed sales producers join one networking organization and teach them how to connect and build those relationships in the exact same way.

If each member of your team was involved in at least one organization, think how much more exposure your agency would get in the local community. But why not give them a little incentive at the same time?

In the same way you reward your clients for referrals, you can also reward your team members. Start tracking where quotes and referrals originate and offering monthly contests to your team. It’s not only a fun way to keep everyone involved, but also helps build confidence and get them to push a little harder.

Robyn Sharp is a former insurance agent and owner of Mega Agency Marketing, which provides free insurance marketing tools to help you get more clients.