We are all looking to grow our businesses and increase our visibility to our target market and clients. After all, that is the backbone of what we do! In this economy, consumers tread lightly, hold tight to their purse strings, and will often look for validity from others in what we offer to them.

Social proof, or testimonials are worth their weight in gold. They are trusted and valued on an extremely highly level, so the most effective salesperson you will ever find is an existing client. Having your clients testify about your product or service or having them relate a success story that involves your product or service is one of the best ways to educate and provide evidence to your prospects.
The best time to obtain a testimonial is immediately after you have delivered on the promise that your product or service will do what you said it would. First and foremost, genuinely thank your client for their business, for from gratitude comes more of the same. Next, ask them if they are happy with their purchase, and if yes, ask if they would be willing to write a brief note about their experience, in particular about the “blank” and “blank”.

The two “blanks” are critically important. You need testimonials that are specific. And you need them to reflect your mission statement and your unique selling proposition, so that when you use them in your marketing, they reinforce your sales message as powerfully as possible.