“Would you be happy to write a testimonial about the work I’ve done for you?”
I don’t know about you, but for some reason, trying to ask for a testimonial from a client frightens the hell out of me. Honestly, I don’t know why, it’s bloody ridiculous, but there you go. However, testimonials are important, not just for me, but for my client too.
So, no matter how nervous it makes me, I know I have to bury it deep and ask for one.
“I doubt your client gets any kudos for bigging you up”, you might be thinking.
But here’s the thing: testimonials shouldn’t be a one-way street.
Let me explain.
Client testimonials: Why ask for a testimonial?
Allow me to be self-indulgent, to begin with (although when am I not?)
When I complete a piece of work and my client is happy, I ask for a testimonial.
Why?
Because not only do they look fab on my website and marketing blurb, but it also says: I wrote that. I’m Billy Big Bollocks and my client loved it!
No matter what industry you’re in – don’t stop there.
Yes, having something on your website is great, but I ask for a bit more.
I ask if they’d be happy to copy and paste their words onto my business pages. And I make it easy. Rather than asking them to search, I give them a small list of websites and directories I’m on, including:
Not everybody posts them. But by sending a list of links, it makes it easier for a happy client to give you feedback on your top-notch work.
So, like me, you’ve just completed a great piece of work and received some great feedback.
The next question is: Do you return the favour?
Client testimonials: What’s in it for them?
Answer honestly: Do you leave a review for the person you’ve just worked for?
I bet some of you are saying no. And some of you are saying you shouldn’t
Well, I say: Why the hell no?
It’s a business relationship, so when I complete a job, I ask my client if they’d like me to write them a testimonial. And if so, are there any pages or directories they’d like me to copy it to as well.
Suddenly I get a much better take-up on them writing me one in return.
By doing this the names of both businesses appear in a lot more places – it’s a win-win.
So, the next time you ask for a testimonial, why not ask your client if they’d like one in return?
I’m sure they’re fabulous and would love you to tell the world how professional and easy to work with they are.
That’s what I do anyway.
Until next time,
Matt
PS. To see what happy clients have said about my copywriting work – check out my Testimonials page.
PPS. To make sure you can get testimonials, you need a strong brand that attracts clients. To help you do that, check out my article, How to create your brand story.
