I have a handful of really happy clients but I've never formally asked for testimonials. What's the best way to ask, and where do you use them once you have them?
Client Testimonials - How to Ask and Use Them
I ask right after delivering a significant refund or savings report. The email goes something like: I'm glad we were able to find these savings for you. Would you be willing to share a brief quote about your experience that I could use on my website? Most people say yes if you catch them when they're feeling good about the results.
The trick is to make it easy. Don't ask them to write something from scratch - draft a testimonial based on their actual results and send it to them for approval. Something like: Before working with [your name], we had no idea our utility was billing us on the wrong rate class. They recovered $45,000 in overcharges and our monthly bill dropped by $1,800. Most clients will approve it as-is or make minor tweaks.
Testimonials go on your website, in proposals, on your LinkedIn profile, and in email signatures. A specific testimonial with dollar amounts is worth its weight in gold. Got them $45K back is way more powerful than Great to work with. I'd aim to collect a new testimonial after every major engagement.
Love the pre-drafted approach Linda. That removes all the friction. Going to reach out to my top 3 clients this week.