18 Apr Considerations For Asking For Client Testimonials

Testimonials from satisfied clients can establish credibility and trust with prospects who are considering your PEO. Real life stories from happy customers can help candidates feel more confident in their decision to choose you. However, asking for a recommendation must be done with diplomacy and respect for your client’s time.

Here are ten important considerations and strategies you can use to ask for a comment while maintaining good will with your valued customer.

1. Timing: Choose an appropriate time to ask for a testimonial, ideally when the client is most satisfied with your service or product. This could be right after a successful project completion or at a point where they have experienced significant benefits from your service.
2. Permission and Privacy: Always ask for permission to use the client’s testimonial, including where and how it will be used. Be clear about whether you’ll use their full name, company name, or any other personal details. Respect their privacy and preferences.
3. Guidance: Help clients write a testimonial by providing a few guiding questions or points to consider. This can make the process easier for them and can help you receive feedback that aligns with what potential clients might find helpful. For example, you might ask them to describe how your product solved a specific problem or how your service improved their business.
4. Specificity: Encourage specifics over general praise. Specific details about how your product or service helped your client are much more influential than generic statements like “Great service!”
5. Authenticity: Ensure that the testimonials are authentic and represent the true opinions of your clients. Never script or alter what they say beyond minor grammatical corrections, as credibility is crucial.
6. Ease of Submission: Make the process of giving a testimonial as easy as possible. This could be through a simple form, a direct email, or even a phone call where you take notes and then send them a draft for approval.
7. Diversity: Aim to collect testimonials that reflect a range of clients, industries, and experiences. This diversity can enhance the credibility and appeal of your testimonials to a broader audience.
8. Follow-Up: If a client agrees to give a testimonial but doesn’t send one, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up reminder. However, be respectful of their time and decision if they choose not to participate.
9. Gratitude: Always thank your clients for their testimonials and time. Let them know how valuable their input is to your business and consider offering a token of appreciation if appropriate.
10. Legal Considerations: Be aware of any legal implications, especially related to privacy and the use of testimonials in advertising. Be sure to get a signed release conveying permission to use their comment in your promotional materials.

By carefully considering these aspects, you can effectively gather powerful testimonials that enhance your credibility and attract new customers.

Sample Release Form

I, [Client Name], hereby grant [Your Company Name] permission to use the following testimonial:

[Insert Testimonial Here]

I understand that this comment may be used in various promotional materials, including but not limited to, websites, social media platforms, print advertisements, and marketing collateral. I also acknowledge that [Your Company Name] may edit or modify the testimonial for length, clarity, or grammar, while maintaining the overall message and intent. I confirm that I am the rightful owner of this testimonial and have the authority to grant permission for its use by [Your Company Name].

I release [Your Company Name] from any liability arising from the use of the testimonial as described above.

[Your Signature]
________________________________________________________________________________
Please return the signed release form to us at your earliest convenience. Thank you for allowing us to share your positive experience with others.

Warm regards,
[Your Name]
[Your Company Name]