You’ve probably heard the saying: “Testimonials are the best marketing tool.” And it’s true.
Testimonials and reviews are powerful endorsements from real customers, giving your business credibility, building trust, and influencing new customers to choose you over your competition.
But how exactly can you get your happy customers to provide them, without feeling awkward or intimidated?
What are testimonials and why are they so powerful?
Read more about why your business needs testimonials
At their core, testimonials are customer reviews or endorsements that reflect real-life experiences with your business. They can come in the form of text, videos, or even audio.
Testimonials add authenticity to your marketing because they represent what people say about your business, not what you say about yourself.
So, why are they so powerful? Testimonials
- Build trust and credibility
- Highlight real results
- Create emotional connections
Now that we’ve established why testimonials are such an effective tool, let’s get into the practical part—how do you actually ask for them?
How to ask for testimonials (without feeling awkward)
Asking for testimonials can feel intimidating for some business owners.
You might worry about inconveniencing your clients, or perhaps you feel awkward making the request.
But here’s the truth: if your clients have had a great experience with your business, they’ll often be more than happy to provide a testimonial.
The key is to make the process simple and comfortable.
Here are some practical tips for how to go about asking for testimonials:
Ask at the right time
Timing is everything. The best time to ask for a testimonial is right after a successful project, sale, or service when the client is happiest with the results.
They’re more likely to be enthusiastic and willing to share their positive experience.
Don’t let too much time pass—capitalise on that fresh sense of satisfaction.
Here’s an example: Right after completing a project, you could say: “I’m so glad you’re happy with the results! Would you be willing to share your experience in a quick testimonial?”
Be direct, but polite
The best way to get a testimonial is to ask for one directly. Avoid hinting or beating around the bush—your clients appreciate straightforwardness.
Let them know that their feedback would be valuable to your business and could help others make informed decisions.
Example: “I really value your feedback and was wondering if you’d be willing to share a quick testimonial about your experience with us. It would help others understand how we work and what to expect.”
Make it as easy as possible
One of the biggest hurdles to getting testimonials is the process itself. The easier you make it for your clients, the more likely they are to follow through. Here are some ways to simplify it:
- Provide a direct link: Whether you’re looking for a Google review, Facebook review, or a written testimonial for your website, make sure to send them a direct link that takes them straight to the page where they can leave their feedback.
- Offer clear direction: Some clients might struggle with what to say. To get more structured and helpful testimonials, ask leading questions. For example:
- “What specific problem did we solve for you?”
- “How did you find working with us?”
- “What was your favourite part of the process?”
- “What results have you seen since using our product/service?”
Offer a template or framework
Sometimes clients want to provide a testimonial but don’t know where to start.
Offer them a simple framework or even a template they can tweak. This can be particularly helpful for clients who are busy or not as comfortable writing.
Here’s an example: “Here’s a quick template to help get you started:
‘I worked with [Your Business Name] on [specific project or service], and the results were [specific results]. The process was [describe the process], and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for [mention the benefits they received].‘
Take it off their plate
If a client doesn’t feel comfortable writing, offer to collect the testimonial through a phone call or interview. You can ask a few questions and write the testimonial on their behalf. Just make sure to send it to them afterward for approval before you use it.
Example: “If it’s easier for you, I’d be happy to have a quick call and write up your thoughts for you. I can send it over for your approval before we use it.”
Leverage video testimonials
Video testimonials are incredibly powerful because they provide an even more personal touch. A video captures tone, body language, and emotion that text simply can’t.
If your clients are comfortable on camera, consider asking for a short video testimonial. You can either film them yourself or let them record one and send it over.
Follow up (but don’t be pushy)
People are busy, and sometimes they’ll forget to send their testimonial even if they’re willing to provide one. A friendly follow-up can make all the difference. You don’t want to be pushy, but a polite reminder is often appreciated.
Example: “I just wanted to follow up and check in on the testimonial request I sent over last week. No rush, but I’d love to hear your thoughts when you have a moment!”
Real life examples of how TNG members use testimonials
Our TNG members successfully use testimonials as a core part of their marketing strategies.
“Testimonials are incredibly powerful. I try to get each of my clients to leave us a Google review every time we sell a property. That helps to remove some of the fear around the process for potential new clients.”
TNG has contributed to a large amount of the success in Rawinia’s business. Every week she receives some kind of a referral or new connection. The great thing with TNG is that it is all about giving referrals and connections. When you give business, it is a natural step to receive it in return.
Rawinia doesn’t see TNG as your regular networking group. Each group grows to be like a family to each other. At the last meeting she attended, one of the business owners was having some troubles. So, after the meeting, the group got together to brainstorm ways they could help that person do more business and get more focused. That’s the beauty of TNG!
Clare Baker – Data Insight
“Testimonials provide my business with credibility. By being an active participant in TNG groups, it encourages that same level of credibility. Having that credibility means that people can have confidence in the delivery of your service.”
Clare loves being part of the TNG network as it gives her the opportunity to showcase what her business does in a safe environment. More than that, it is a place where connections become friends.
“Each time I win business through a TNG group member, it allows us to provide sustainable job opportunities for our current staff or new staff members.
Being part of the TNG family has enabled me to surround myself with other like minded business professionals. I think I have been blessed to find so many great people and businesses within the groups I meet with.”
Our final thoughts on how testimonials can transform your business
Asking for testimonials doesn’t have to be awkward or difficult.
By making the process easy and showing clients how much you value their feedback, you’ll be able to collect glowing reviews that help build trust and credibility for your business.
Remember, a great testimonial is like word-of-mouth marketing that keeps working for you, long after the project is complete. So don’t be afraid to ask for them, and use them wisely across your website, social media, and email marketing campaigns.
Testimonials are a great tool for your business, just like networking is. So, if you would like to experience them both, why not come and visit one of our local groups?
You can see when and where each TNG meets by clicking this link. Your first two meetings are completely free.
