Are You Asking for Testimonials?

There's a lot of weight in a customer testimonial, but are you missing out on the some of the benefits?

By contacting your customers and asking for a testimonial, you are creating a perfect opportunity for getting additional information about their experience with your company's product or service. You can learn a lot about your customers needs, ways to improve your offerings, and fine-tune areas of your customer service.

Once you get their testimonial, be sure to ask them if it's okay to publish their contact information with their comments on your website or in marketing materials. Readers want to see testimonials and comments that include the customers full name and preferrably contact information, instead of "Bob in New York" or "A Satisfied Customer." It's just not as convincing without it.

Never post anything other than authentic comments, nothing will hurt your reputation more than dishonesty. Trust is a key element of success, especially for an online business.

Create a collection of testimonials from customers with varying circumstances. If a testimonial is from someone in a similiar industry or situation as theirs. it will help your customer relate. Once you know who your prospect is, you can share the appropriate testimonial for greater impact.

Just by asking, you'll create multiple opportunities. Not only are you able to get compelling content for use in marketing material, learn new ways to improve your business, stay-in-touch with a customer even after the sale, but you'll also be helping to seal the deal on your next project or big sale.