What To Do When a Referral Comes In from Fresh Starts
First: take a breath.
If someone is reaching out to you because Olivia connected you, that means a few important things:
They are likely in a vulnerable moment.
They trust Fresh Starts.
They’ve been encouraged to speak with you specifically for a reason.
That’s not small.
Here’s exactly how to handle a Fresh Starts referral so it feels seamless, warm, and aligned with our ethos.
1. Respond Quickly (Even If It’s Just a Holding Note)
Divorce and life transitions are emotionally activating. When someone reaches out, their nervous system is often already lit up.
Goal: Respond within 24 hours.
Even if you can’t schedule right away, send something simple and steady:
“I’m so glad Olivia connected us. I’d be honored to support you. I’ll send a few times shortly — in the meantime, take a breath. You don’t have to figure this out alone.”
Quick response = emotional safety.
2. Acknowledge the Fresh Starts Connection
This matters more than you think.
Say Olivia’s name. Say Fresh Starts. Reinforce the ecosystem.
Example:
“Olivia shared a bit about what you’re navigating, and I’m really glad she reached out. Fresh Starts is such a thoughtful community — you’re in good hands.”
This:
Builds continuity
Strengthens trust
Reinforces the support network
We are not a random directory. We are a connected system.
3. Offer a Clear Next Step
People in transition are often overwhelmed. Remove friction.
Instead of:
“Let me know if you’d like to talk.”
Say:
“Here’s my calendar link.”
“I have openings Tuesday at 10 or Thursday at 2.”
“Let’s start with a 20-minute clarity call.”
Specific > vague.
Make it easy to say yes.
4. Move at Their Pace
Not every referral is ready to hire immediately.
Some are:
Gathering information
Interviewing multiple professionals
Testing the waters emotionally
That’s okay.
Your job is not to close. Your job is to stabilize.
Lead with:
Clarity
Transparency
Compassion
Let the relationship build naturally.
5. Keep Olivia in the Loop (Briefly)
If someone books — amazing. If they decide not to move forward — that’s okay too.
A simple note helps:
“Connected with your referral — thank you for the intro. We’ve scheduled a consult.”
or
“We spoke and it wasn’t the right timing, but I appreciate the connection.”
This allows us to:
Track outcomes
Strengthen cross-referrals
Better understand community needs
It doesn’t need to be detailed. Just closed-loop communication.
6. If It’s Not a Fit — Say So
One of the most powerful things you can do as an expert is say:
“I may not be the best fit for this specific situation, but here’s who might be.”
That builds trust across the entire ecosystem.
And if you’re unsure? Loop Olivia in. We’ll find the right support.
7. Remember: They Are Often Scared
Most referrals are coming in during:
Shock
Panic
Financial fear
Custody anxiety
Identity loss
Deep grief
They may sound composed. They may sound scattered. Either way, assume tenderness. Your steadiness is medicine.
8. Protect Your Own Boundaries
Fresh Starts referrals are high-trust — but that does not mean:
Discount automatically
Overextend
Provide unlimited free labor
Offer your normal process.
Be generous with presence, not unsustainable with your time.
Healthy boundaries model safety.
A Quick Checklist
When a Fresh Starts referral comes in:
☐ Respond within 24 hours
☐ Acknowledge Olivia + Fresh Starts
☐ Offer a clear next step
☐ Move at their pace
☐ Loop Olivia in briefly
☐ Refer out if needed
☐ Maintain your boundaries
Why This Matters
Fresh Starts was built on two sisters rebuilding from empty rooms and haunted ones.
When someone reaches out to you, they are often standing in one of those rooms. Your job is not to fix their life in one call.
Your job is to be a calm, competent, compassionate next step.
And when we all do that consistently? No one has to start over alone.