How to Earn Referral Commissions Using Squarespace
Squarespace Circle supports, inspires, and engages a community of creatives, developers, designers, and agencies who use the platform to build online presences for themselves and their clients. Members of the partner program enjoy added benefits, including extended trial periods, priority Customer Support, and exclusive perks such as the Circle referral payments.
Circle referral payments help Squarespace web designers unlock extra earnings from every project, expand their client base, and establish a strong professional network for bringing their clients to Squarespace.
What are Circle referral payments?
Launched in October 2021, Circle referral payments helped Circle partners in eligible locations earn commissions for qualifying subscriptions on Squarespace (more on this later). As a testament to Squarespace’s commitment to supporting web professionals and creatives, the referral program now supports and rewards Circle Silver, Gold, and Platinum Partners around the world with payments for starting subscriptions for clients and expanding their businesses on Squarespace.
Earning referral commissions is highly advantageous. When Circle partners refer clients to Squarespace, they’re able to showcase their expertise in web design while building trust and credibility as professionals. The program provides a stream of passive income that partners can reinvest into their web design businesses. Some Circle partners use their earnings to purchase new software or equipment, while others invest in marketing or other operational costs. Learn other ways partners reinvest commissions earned from referrals and make the most of the Circle program.
How Circle referral payments work
New annual websites and subscriptions for Squarespace Payments, Acuity Scheduling, Digital Products, and Email Campaigns are considered qualifying subscriptions for Circle referral payments. Every Circle partner will begin earning a lump-sum commission on their first qualifying subscription. This means you don’t have to wait months to get paid like you might with a traditional rev-share program.
The commission amount depends on the partner status, product subscription, and plan type. You can verify your Circle status, whether you are signed up for Circle referral payments, and how much you’ll be paid for projects in your Circle dashboard.
Use the calculator below to get an estimate of commission earnings.
This calculator does not guarantee earnings through Circle referral payments. It is an estimate provided for illustration only. Please review the Circle referral payment terms for more information on commissions and qualifying subscriptions.
How to sign up for Circle referral payments
First, register as a US user or a non-US user with our payment processor, Impact. You must register using the email associated with your Squarespace Circle membership.
After you’ve registered, you can start generating qualifying subscriptions. You’ll receive a commission for every new qualifying subscription.
Tips for maximizing referral commissions
A steady flow of business is crucial to increasing your commission earnings. The following are tips for attracting potential clients.
1. Get your portfolio set up
A visually appealing and well-curated portfolio is essential for attracting new clients. Highlight your best work, demonstrating your expertise and versatility. Include case studies, testimonials, and client success stories to build trust and credibility.
2. Optimize your site for search engines
Implement traditional and AI search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to improve your website’s visibility in search results. Research relevant keywords, optimize metadata, create high-quality content, and ensure your site is mobile-friendly to increase your chances of being discovered by potential clients.
3. Leverage social media
Establish a strong presence on social media platforms where you can share your work, engage with your audience, and participate in relevant communities and groups. Social media can be a powerful tool for networking, showcasing your expertise, and attracting potential clients.
4. Network and collaborate
Attend or host industry events, conferences, and meetups to connect with fellow professionals, potential clients, and industry influencers. Collaborate with fellow web professionals to offer comprehensive solutions to clients. Building a strong professional network can lead to valuable referrals and partnerships.
5. Offer exceptional customer service
Providing exceptional customer service is key to client satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth referrals. Communicate promptly and effectively, listen to your clients’ needs, and go above and beyond to exceed their expectations. Happy clients are more likely to recommend your services to others.
6. Provide value through content marketing
Create valuable and informative content through blog posts, guides, or video tutorials. Share your knowledge and expertise to establish yourself as a thought leader in web design. This can attract potential clients who are seeking valuable insights and solutions.
7. Offer specialized services or packages
Differentiate yourself by offering specialized services or packages tailored to specific industries or niches. Position yourself as an expert in a particular area, such as ecommerce websites or one-page designs. This targeted approach can attract clients looking for specialized expertise.
8. Ask for testimonials and referrals
Don’t be afraid to ask satisfied clients for testimonials or referrals. Positive reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations can significantly boost your credibility and attract new clients. Consider adding this request to your offboarding process to collect and showcase testimonials on your website.
Earn referral commissions with Squarespace
The Squarespace Circle referral program is a game-changer for web designers and agencies, offering a multitude of benefits that extend beyond financial rewards. By participating in this program, you can maximize your earnings, expand your client base, establish a strong professional network, and enhance your credibility in the industry. Embrace the power of Circle referral payments and unlock new opportunities for growth and success in your web design career.
*This post was originally published on March 15, 2024. It has since been updated.
Want more?
Check out Squarespace Circle, Squarespace’s program for professional designers and agencies. Along with exclusive content, discounts, and other perks, Circle brings experts together from across the globe to exchange advice while connecting with new clients and collaborators.