Hands up – who has happy customers? Great!
Now, do you have a testimonial from each of them saying how great you are and how much they love your product or service?
No? OK, Big Girl Knickers time…
Why Testimonials Matter
Testimonials are a really important part of your marketing. They are a third party endorsing your business, rather than you blowing your own trumpet. They hold TONS more weight than any advertising you could ever do.
The thing is, testimonials and reviews don’t just appear out of thin air. People don’t usually volunteer them unless they happen to be marketing-minded themselves. Most customers are blissfully unaware that a testimonial would be an AWESOME tool for your business.
You Have To Ask
I know the thought probably brings you out in hives, or a cold sweat, or both. I know you’d rather pull out your toenails than ask someone to say nice things about you.
BUT sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone and ASK.
There’s a saying in my part of the world: “Shy bairns get nowt.” It means shy people get nothing – if you want something, you have to ask for it.
What’s the worst that can happen? That they say no? If you’ve gauged them right, that probably won’t happen. And if it does, it’s a GREAT opportunity to find out what went wrong and put it right.
How To Ask For Testimonials (The Easy Way)
When you ask, make it EASY for them. Don’t just say “can you write me a testimonial?” – most people freeze up because they don’t know what to say.
Instead, ask questions that steer them in the right direction:
- What was your situation like before you started working with me?
- What made you seek me out?
- What was it like working with me?
- What results did you get and how have things changed?
These questions make it really easy for them to think of what to include – and they give you specific, useful content for your marketing.
Your challenge: get 3 testimonials this week. Are you up for it?