Testimonials 101: Why Coaches Need Them and How to Get Them!
As a Squarespace website designer, today I’m sharing why you need them and how to ask for a testimonial so you can snag those stellar reviews!
So, let’s dive into why testimonials are so important for coaches in 2024.
Better Marketing with Client Words
In order to be good at marketing your business, you need to know what’s playing in the back of your potential client’s head And guess what? There is no better place to get that information than in your testimonials. When you ask past clients for their feedback (especially using some of the guided questions I will share below!), their reviews not only serve as social proof (which we will dive into next) but they also become a GREAT source of copywriting inspiration. The best words you could use to market your business are going to be found in them.
The Power of Social Proof
In today’s crowded market, especially for those offering less tangible services like coaching, social proof is gold. Think about it – when you’re about to try a new restaurant, do you trust the owner’s claim that it’s the best in town, or do you trust the glowing reviews from dozens of happy diners? Exactly. People READ reviews.
Convinced? Let’s talk about how you get GOOD testimonials (beyond just one-word answers and 5 stars).
How to Get Better Testimonials: Ask Specific Questions
Instead of a generic “Can you give me a testimonial?”, try something more specific! Here are a few questions to ask for a testimonial to get you started:
What specific problem were you facing before working with me? What were you looking for?
How did my coaching help you overcome this challenge?
What results have you seen since we started working together?
What did you enjoy most about our sessions?
Why would you recommend my services to others?
By asking more specific questions, you help your clients open up and share detailed, impactful stories that show the value of your coaching. I recommend asking these in a form and then asking if it’s okay to use what they wrote and edit anything for clarity to use on your website (so it doesn’t sound like they are answering a question in your marketing material!).
Embrace Negative Feedback
Let’s face it – no one likes to hear negative feedback. I know one of the biggest things that can hold coaches back from following this process, especially if they are newer in the industry, is that they are afraid of negative feedback. And hey - it can sting a bit. But here’s the thing: it’s invaluable. Constructive criticism helps you identify areas for improvement, making your services even better. Plus, handling negative feedback gracefully can actually boost your credibility. It shows that you’re committed to growth and genuinely care about your clients’ experiences. So, don’t shy away from it – embrace it!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to ask for a testimonial from a client?
Timing is everything! The best moment to ask for a testimonial is right after your client has hit a big milestone or seen amazing results from your coaching. That’s when they’re on cloud nine and eager to share their success story.
How can I make the process of giving a testimonial easy and convenient for my clients?
Nobody likes staring at a blank page, and asking for a review can feel a lot like that. Instead, offer a short online form with specific questions, an email template they can quickly fill out, or even a quick phone call to chat about their experience. The easier you make it, the more likely they are to give you that glowing review.
How can I follow up with clients who have agreed to provide a testimonial but haven't yet delivered?
Send a friendly nudge a week or two after your first request. Let them know how much you appreciate their help and remind them how valuable their testimonial is for your business. You can also offer to help by giving them a few prompts or questions to get started.
Why Asking for Testimonials is So Important
I hope this blog has helped you see the amazing benefits of testimonials and how they can boost your coaching business! If you want to dive even further into this, grab my free guide: The Feedback Formula. This comprehensive guide is packed with practical tips and specific questions to help you gather those coveted 5-star reviews beyond what I’ve shared here. I’ve really built it to be your go-to tool for building credibility and getting great testimonials that you love to shout from the rooftops!
