Ever felt weird asking a client for a testimonial?
You’re not alone. Most freelancers, agencies, and businesses know how powerful client testimonials can be, but the process of getting testimonials from clients often feels awkward or pushy.
So, how do you ask for a client testimonial without making it weird?
This blog will walk you through how to ask, collect, and use testimonials naturally and get better responses every time.
What is a Client Testimonial?
A client testimonial is a written or spoken statement from a customer that shares their experience working with you. Think of it as a mini-review that focuses on the outcome you helped them achieve.
Whether it’s a few lines of praise or a short video, user testimonials are social proof that builds trust with potential clients.
Why Are Customer Testimonials So Important?
Still wondering if it’s worth the effort? Here’s why collecting testimonials from clients matters:
- Boosts credibility – Prospects believe real users more than marketing copy.
- Improves SEO – Google loves fresh, relevant, authentic content.
- Drives more conversions – Testimonials can be the nudge someone needs to hit “contact us” or “buy.”
- Shows real results – They highlight the transformation you helped create.
Tip: Add testimonials to your homepage, service pages, and even proposals.
When Is the Best Time to Ask Clients for Testimonials?
Timing matters. Asking at the right moment increases your chances of getting a great testimonial.
Here’s when to ask:
- After successful project delivery.
- Right after receiving positive feedback (verbally or via email).
- When you’ve helped your client hit a major milestone.
- During a follow-up or project wrap-up meeting.
How to Ask for a Testimonial from a Client (Step-by-Step)
Now let’s get to the part you came for: how to ask clients for testimonials in a way that feels natural and gets you great results.
1. Personalize the Ask
Avoid sending a generic message. Mention something specific about the project or their results. This makes it feel personal and not like a mass email.
2. Make It Simple
Don’t make them jump through hoops. Keep your request short, direct, and easy to respond to.
You can say something like:
“Would you be open to sharing a short testimonial about your experience working with us? A few lines would be amazing, and I can even help with a rough draft if that’s easier for you.”
3. Provide a Few Prompts
Help your clients by giving them simple prompts to follow. It reduces friction and results in clearer feedback.
Prompts like:
- What problem were you trying to solve?
- How did our service help?
- What did you love most about working with us?
- Would you recommend us to others?
4. Give Them Options
Let them choose how they want to give the testimonial:
- A quick email reply
- A Google review
- A LinkedIn recommendation
- A short video (great for social proof!)
- A form you send them (with permission)
5. Always Say Thank You
Whether they provide a testimonial or not, be sure to appreciate their time.
Sample Email: How to Ask for a Client Testimonial
Subject Line: Could You Share Your Experience?
Hi [Client’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well! It’s been great working with you on [Project Name].
If you’re open to it, I’d love to feature your feedback as a short testimonial on our website and social channels. Just 2–3 lines about your experience would be perfect.
Here are a few quick prompts to guide you:
- What challenge were you facing before we worked together?
- What did you like most about our service?
- Would you recommend us?
Feel free to reply to this email or drop your thoughts here: [Link to form].
Thanks again for your time and trust!
Best,
[Your Name]
How to Get Good Testimonials from Customers
Good testimonials go beyond “They were great!”
Here’s how to guide clients into writing impactful reviews:
- Ask about the problem they had
- Ask what changed after working with you
- Encourage specific results or metrics
- Use casual language, not corporate jargon
Want more ideas? Here’s a great testimonial example guide by HubSpot.
Tools to Help You Collect Testimonials from Clients
Here are a few platforms that make collecting testimonials super simple:
- Senja.io – Collect and display text or video testimonials.
- Testimonial.to – One link for collecting video or text reviews.
- Boast.io – Good for automating testimonial requests.
Also, don’t forget to ask for Google Reviews, they help with SEO and local trust!
Where To Use Testimonials:
Once you get them, don’t let them collect dust.
Use client testimonials on:
- Homepage
- About page
- Case studies
- Landing pages
- Email newsletters
- Social media posts
And always link back to your services page to drive traffic and conversions.
Final Thoughts
Asking for a testimonial doesn’t have to feel awkward. When done the right way, it’s just another part of maintaining strong client relationships.
- Personalize your ask
- Keep it easy
- Offer guidance
- Be grateful
Start small. Reach out to your last 3 happy clients today, you’ll be surprised how many are happy to support you.
Need help crafting the perfect testimonial email or setting up a form?
Get in touch with the Prolance Global team, We’re here to help you build better credibility, one client win at a time.
FAQs:
1. What is an example of a testimonial?
“Working with Prolance Global was seamless from day one. Their team helped us go live faster and made communication easy throughout. Highly recommend them for any dev-related project!”
2. How to get testimonials from clients?
Reach out after the project ends, personalize the message, offer examples or prompts, and make it easy for them to respond.
3. How to collect testimonials?
Use email, Google Forms, testimonial platforms like Senja or Boast, or ask for LinkedIn recommendations.
4. How do you get client testimonials that sound natural?
Give clients examples and encourage honest feedback. Avoid writing it for them, but you can suggest phrasing if they ask.
5. How do you ask for client testimonials without sounding salesy?
Keep it friendly and low-pressure. Focus on the value they got, not promoting your business.