Not-so-spoiler alert: Client testimonials are powerful, but if you’re not showcasing them and actively collecting feedback, you’re missing a huge opportunity to attract new clients. Don’t let your testimonials gather dust—use them strategically!
If you run a business (and I’m guess you do - or want to - since you’re reading this) then you’re probably always looking for ways to attract more clients and grow your business.
In this blog, I’m talking about one HUGE tool you probably already* have that can help—your existing clients. Yup, your clients can become your most powerful marketing tool when you leverage their testimonials the right way.
(*If you don’t have any paying clients yet because you’ve just started out, offer pro-bono services to a few clients in exchange for their honest feedback. It’s a great way to gain experience, build confidence, and gather testimonials for when you’re ready to start charging!)
Client testimonials aren’t just a nice add-on to your website or social media. They are proof that you can deliver the results your potential clients are looking for. When you use them well, they can really help you build trust, attract your ideal clients, and grow your business in a way that feels authentic and natural.
So, let’s talk about how to collect powerful client testimonials that will work for you. Here are my top tips for using testimonials to bring in more clients:
1. Ask for Feedback Regularly
The first step to getting amazing testimonials is simply asking for feedback regularly. But not just any feedback—ask for testimonials that focus on results. This way, potential clients can see exactly how you’ve helped others, and they’ll be more confident in hiring you.
I recommend getting feedback right after you’ve finished a service, while your client is still buzzing from the transformation or results. For example, if you’ve helped them revamp their wardrobe or created a signature look, ask them how they feel about the outcome.
Here’s a tip: Create a simple form (to send to your client) with a few key questions that will help them articulate their experience and results. The form should guide them to talk about the specific results they got, not just generic compliments like "Emma was so lovely to work with!" (Of course, we love to hear that, but it's not what will sell your services to future clients.)
Questions like:
"What was your main challenge before working with me?"
"What specific results have you seen since working with me?"
"How do you feel about the changes or improvements we've made?"
"Would you recommend my services to others? Why?"
This way, you’re making it easy for your clients to give you exactly the feedback you need to showcase the impact you’ve had on their lives or business.
2. Display Testimonials on Your Website and Social Media
Now that you’ve got some glowing testimonials, it’s time to show them off! Make sure your potential clients can easily see them when they visit your website and social media platforms. These testimonials are your secret weapon, so use them to build credibility and show others what you can do.
Here’s where to feature your testimonials:
On your website: Create a “Client Testimonials” or “Success Stories” page where you can feature multiple reviews. This gives potential clients a place to go to see how you’ve helped others.
On key service pages: Don’t just stick them on one page—embed them on your homepage, service pages, and even your contact page. When potential clients see that others have had great experiences, it’ll make them more likely to book.
On social media: Share testimonials on your social platforms regularly. You could feature them in stories, as posts, or even in a highlight reel on Instagram. Don’t forget to add visuals, like photos or before-and-after shots, to give your posts more impact. Visual transformations (especially if you’re a Personal Stylist, Yoga Teacher or Makeup Artist) will sell your services faster than anything you could ever write or say!!
Consider video testimonials: If possible, ask your clients to record a short video testimonial. People love seeing and hearing real experiences, and video testimonials tend to feel more personal and authentic. Plus, they’re super shareable!
3. Encourage Clients to Leave Online Reviews
In addition to collecting testimonials directly from your clients, it’s also a great idea to encourage them to leave reviews on third-party sites like Google, Yelp, or Facebook. These reviews are gold when it comes to attracting new clients because they’re public and visible to a wider audience.
Here’s how to make it easy for your clients to leave a review:
Provide direct links: Don’t just ask for a review—make it as easy as possible by sending a direct link to the review page or guiding them through the process.
Ask at the right time: Timing matters! After you’ve completed a service and your client is excited about the results, ask if they would be willing to leave a review. This is the perfect moment when they’re feeling positive about your work.
Offer a small incentive: If it fits your business model, offer a small thank-you gift (like a discount on a future service) for clients who take the time to leave a review.
I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t even buy a book these day without reading the reviews first—what if it’s one of those that’s all hype and no substance? Your potential clients are probably the same. So make sure they have some juicy testimonials to browse through before they hit ‘buy now’.
Here's to your success - your style!
Emma x
P.S. Want more tips on how to attract your ideal clients and grow a business you love? Sign up for my weekly newsletter! I share exclusive marketing insights, manifestation strategies, and practical advice specifically for service-based business owners. Join me and start building the business of your dreams!