Over the last month, I've received several questions regarding testimonials/reviews, so let me address them here:
1. Q: I don't ask for testimonials, should I?
1. A: Absolutely! Asking for testimonials should be a regular part of your client/patients/customer relationship. You should never miss a chance to ask for a review or testimonial (usually at the end of the matter).
2. Q: Should I ask for testimonials from all my clients?
2. A: If you know for certain that your customer is satisfied, by all means, ask for it. You don't want to ask for a review from someone you're not sure of.
3. Q: Is there an easy way to ask for a testimonial?
3. A: If, for whatever reason, you're reluctant about asking for it yourself (I hope you're not), print out, on a nicely designed glossy card, the steps for exactly HOW the customer/patient/client should go about giving you the review. DO NOT WRITE THE ACTUAL TESTIMONIAL FOR THEM. Then give it to them and tell them their participation would personally mean a lot to you.
4. Q: I already have too many testimonials -- I don't want to bore people.
4. A: You can NEVER NEVER NEVER have too many testimonials. The more you can show how others love what you do ("social proof"), the more likely potential customers will be swayed by the preponderance of the evidence in your favor. Testimonials/reviews are your GREATEST sales force.
5. Q: Should I offer an incentive to give me a review/testimonial?
5. A: This is tricky because it can be viewed by some as something of a "bribe." You want to be careful of that. But one thing you can do is to send the customer a small denomination gift card like ($5 or $10) for the time they spent giving you the review. They'll be happy and probably tell some people about your thoughtful gesture.
6. BONUS QUESTION: What should the best reviews say?
6. A: Tune in tomorrow, I'll give you some examples of good testimonials...
