Why customer testimonials are bling for your brand
One of my clients requested testimonials from her customers recently, only to be disappointed with the quality that arrived in her inbox.
I wasn't surprised one bit.
Testimonials are often vague or poorly written, so they aren't useful.
But when they are great, they give your brand extra sparkle to help you stand out in the marketplace.
✅ Why Testimonials Matter
First, remember that great testimonials aren't just praise—they're stories of transformation. They show potential clients what's possible when working with you.
Authentic testimonials build trust and credibility better than any self-promotion ever could.
✅ Questions That Produce Stellar Testimonials
You can prevent ho-hum testimonials by creating a list of simple questions.
When you approach customers for feedback, ask:
"What specific challenge were you facing before we worked together?"
"How was this problem affecting your business or life?"
"What made you choose us?"
"What was your experience like when you worked with us?"
"What results did you achieve?"
"How do things feel different now?"
✅ The Elements of Powerful Testimonials
The most compelling testimonials include:
A relatable problem
Genuine emotion
Specific details about the solution
Measurable results
The transformation experienced
✅ When to Ask
Ideally, you should request a testimonial when a customer expresses their happiness with your product or service, or when you are closing out the project.
✅ Make It Easy
Offer options for your customers—written responses, quick phone interviews, or even video testimonials are all good choices.
Create a Jotform or Googleform and have the link ready to send along immediately.
Make sure you ask their permission to use their quote, their name, their headshot, and other identifying information in your marketing materials.
The easier you make it, the more likely customers will participate.
✅ Organize testimonials in one place
Collect and place your testimonials in a folder, document, or sheet for easy reference. That way, you can easily choose the right quotes to add to your website, proposals, and other marketing materials on a rolling basis.
✅ Final tips
If you are placing a testimonial on your website, make it as concise as possible - a sentence or two max.
If you can include the person's full name and headshot, all the better. Use your judgment. Try not to mask the identity, because if you do, you will raise suspicions about the authenticity of the quote.
✅ Parting thoughts
Remember, testimonials aren't just marketing material—they're authentic stories of transformation.
When you collect them thoughtfully, they become your most powerful selling tool, showcasing not just what you do, but the difference you make.
Great customer testimonials captivate your potential customers - just like any good bling.
