The power of the testimonial

Never underestimate how much credibility a testimonial can give to a brand or company.

It always means a lot to us at KJS when we receive a customer takes the time to say ‘thank you’ or write a testimonial. We don’t ever expect them but they mean a lot.

Like these which we've received recently.

All too often, we move on from one job to the next, and fail to look back at completed jobs. We know we carried out the job correctly and on time and we know the customer was happy. But we seldom think about asking for a testimonial to support this.

What is a testimonial?

A testimonial is a written or recorded statement that supports a business’s credibility and level of expertise.

They play an extremely important role in the success of any business, providing assurance as part of the relationship-building journey, which is lined with credibility and expertise, testimonials from loyal customers are a critical part of the presence of your business. Testimonials demonstrate the trust that other people have in your business, and can help attract a deeper interest from perspective clients and existing clients and will ultimately grow business success.

Why are testimonials so important?

When it comes to all businesses (large and small), the success of the business depends heavily on word of mouth. Testimonials are formal forms of expression that support that concept. They are extremely powerful tools when it comes to strengthening a brand. Testimonials strengthen the credibility of you and your business and as you know, after all, people will not do business with you if they don’t trust you and find you to be credible.

You’ll be surprised at how many valuable testimonials you will be able to collect, not just by asking your business connections for them directly but also through discussions or social media activity.

How to use testimonials most effectively

  • Which ones to use: Any time you have a positive interaction with a business associate and they express an interest in any of your business offerings, it is a good opportunity to ask them for a testimonial.  They are not only about selling your products and/or services, they’re are also about successful, positive interactions with other people. They are the embodiment of the relationship that you share with those people.
     
  • Where to place them: There are many opportune places where you can put your testimonials. You can put them on your blog, website, brochures, sales pages, press releases, direct mail letters, etc. You should make full use of your social media channels to spread the word regarding your testimonials. As soon as you receive a new testimonial, make sure to share it with as many people as possible in as many places as possible. That will serve a double purpose. First of all, it will strengthen your reputation and presence online and second of all, it will serve as a thank you to the person who was nice enough to take the time to write the testimonial for you.
     
  • Written and video: It is great if you are able to obtain both written and video testimonials. Both media are effective and work in different ways. Video touches people visually and emotionally and written testimonials touch people emotionally and mentally. It is also good from a convenience perspective. There are many people who prefer written or video testimonials, depending on how busy they are and how important convenience is to them.
     
  • Who should write testimonials? Testimonials can come from several different people, not just customers. They are all about connecting relationships with your business and your positive interactions with them.

 

Credibility is essential to the success of your business. Strategic and intelligent use of testimonials can go a long way in promoting your business. The more online visibility and stronger reputation you have and continue to maintain, the stronger your business will become.

So, don't be modest, ask your customers for a testimonial... they will be flattered that you asked!

Or, don't wait to be asked by your supplier. It only takes a couple of minutes to write a testimonial but it will mean a huge amount to them!

Read some of our testimonials here