I’m Len Foster — and I spent forty years in construction before I ever stood on a stage.

I talk to construction audiences about the thing that quietly costs the industry the most: not the technical failures, but the conversations that don’t happen. The unasked question. The assumption nobody checked. The doubt nobody voiced.

Framed in the language the site and the boardroom both understand — money, risk, safety and margin.

Referrals are meant to feel natural. Yet, many professionals are reluctant to ask even the most satisfied clients, worried about putting them on the spot, damaging trust or risking the relationship.

In this presentation, author, coach and business consultant, Len Foster, explores how to generate growth through trust and referrals – without the awkward ask.

Grounded in decades of real-world experience across business, sales, marketing, and leadership, and informed by the framework developed in his latest book, The Strategic Referral System, Len’s presentation explores:

• The emotional exposure, perceived risk, and discomfort that quietly derail referral activity.
• The cost of missed opportunities, lost revenue, and erosion of self-belief.
• The timing, conditions and language that make referrals feel safe, natural, and pressure-free.
• Practical steps to design trust-led referral systems and build long-term relationships that fuel sustainable growth.

This keynote presentation is typically delivered as a 30–40 minute presentation, followed by a Q&A, but Len can adapt the content to suit shorter slots or longer sessions.

Len Foster spent 40 years in construction — from the tools as a joiner to the boardroom, tendering, planning and delivering multi-million-pound projects across the UK. 

He knows how decisions get made at the top and how they land on the ground — and how often the costliest problems begin not with the build, but with a conversation that didn’t happen.

After leaving the industry he spent years as a trainer, speaker and coach, and ia a published author of five books covering, communication and influence, sales, social skills and business growth. 

Today he brings both worlds together — helping construction businesses build the communication, confidence and decision-making that stop a £5k problem becoming a £50k one.

He speaks at conferences, company days, leadership events and CPD events across the UK, and will be the feature webinar presenter for CABE in 2026.

“I have attended a number of events where Len has spoken professionally. I always enjoy his talks and he always gives his audience something of value to takeaway.”

• Carolyn Trafford FdA PgC, creative coach and artist

“Len has done two presentations at the North Staffs Federation of Small Business monthly members networking meetings. Both presentations on different subjects were both informative and very interesting. I have recommended Len to other FSB branches in the Staffordshire area.”

• Eddie Wright, membership advisor at the Federation of Small Business

“I hired Len for a speaker engagement at our education day and received great feedback from our delegates on his session, which was both informative and inspiring. I have no hesitation in recommending him as a speaker and knowledgeable specialist.”

• Gorden Gleinister, influencer marketing and membership consultant

“If you get the chance to hear Len speak, take it! His session on the ‘Referral Edge’ was easily one of the most engaging talks I’ve been to. I made loads of notes and I’m already putting them into practice. Len has a great way of building your confidence while keeping the energy high and the mood fun. 10/10!”

• Clare Ridley, Operations Coordinator, Pureclean Bio Hazard

Len Foster’s talk at the Engine Room on referral marketing was top notch. Proper lightbulb moments—left buzzing with ideas!

• Kelly Archer, Business Development Manager NetworkIN UK

Get in touch to check availability or talk through your event. Len adapts every session to the audience — site teams, management, commercial, or leadership — and to your slot and objectives.

Get in touch → Let’s Talk

Q: What topics can Len speak about?
A: Referral Growth: Len speaks on referral growth, building high trust relationships, confidence and effective communication. However, his extensive experience across business, sales and leadership enables him to tailor sessions to suit a range of commercial themes. Get in touch to discuss how we can help.

Q: What topics can Len speak about?
A: Construction Communication: Communication, confidence and decision-making in construction — and the real cost of poor communication on projects. His 40 years in the industry let him tailor a session to your audience and theme. Get in touch to discuss how we can help.

Q: Is Len available for conferences and CPD events?
Yes. keynotes, workshops and tailored sessions for conferences, company days, leadership events and professional bodies across the UK.

Q: Can sessions be tailored?
Absolutely – sessions can be adapted for different audiences, audience sizes, and event objectives. Get in touch to find out how Len can help with your next event.