How to Get More Client Testimonials + Free Template
Social proof is a powerful marketing tool for your business, but it may be challenging to get testimonials from clients if you don’t have a strategy. I was getting amazing feedback from clients during their brand photoshoots, but I didn’t have any written proof to share on my website and social channels. So, I created a feedback form automation that I send to every single client after their session. It’s been a gamechanger!
Here are a few ways you can encourage more testimonials from your clients:
Create a feedback form, and send it automatically to the client’s e-mail
You may forget to send a feedback form after you work with a client, so automate it! I personally use Honeybook for all of my client communications, contracts, invoices and any client management. Since I’ve been using it (it’s been two years now) I’ve made more money, gotten paid easier and quicker and it have improved the overall client experience. Save time creating your own feedback form with this free template. Set it as an automation in your client projects, and watch the raving reviews start rolling in!
I recommend sending the testimonial form right after you deliver to the client. Setup at least one more reminder two weeks after, just in case they were too busy to fill it out right away.
Also, don’t make your feedback form too long to increase results. If it’s too long, the client may not complete it. Make it easy for them to leave a review!
2. Incentivize client testimonials
Thankfully, most of my clients are excited to leave positive reviews. It’s a true testament to the high quality client experience I work hard to provide. But, I do like to incentivize my clients to send a testimonial. If they do complete it, I’ll send them a thank you e-mail, a Starbucks gift card and I’ll share their feedback on my social platforms. They love to be featured, so it’s a win win. You don’t need to tell the client you’ll give them a gift for sharing a testimonial, but it’s nice for them to know if they’ll be featured or how it will help you both.
3. Ask permission to share the testimonial
Some clients may send a positive e-mail, text or even DM on Instagram. Before you share it, it’s best practice to ask their permission first. Especially if it isn’t in a formal format like a feedback form. Thank them for the feedback, and then ask if they have permission. I included this question in the testimonial template, so it’s already built in when the client completes the form.
4. Have a third party ask for the testimonial
If you don’t feel comfortable asking for testimonials yourself, you can have a third party do it for you. When I was working on my CRM, I hired a systems strategist to assist me. She asked me for 10-15 clients she could reach out to ask for testimonials. To my surprise, 10 of them responded with really thoughtful feedback! I was then able to use it on my website and other channels. Super thankful for that.
Video testimonials are an even more powerful way for clients to share their experience with working with you. If they would prefer to create a video, you can always transcribe it for your website or other platforms where video isn’t used!
How do you encourage client testimonials?
