Getting client testimonials seems like it should be simple, but it's actually something most business owners struggle with.

Last week, we talked about the trust recession and how social proof is more important now than ever before. So this week, we're diving deep into everything you need to know about client testimonials: how to ask for them, what questions to ask to get compelling answers, when to follow up, and how to use them strategically on your website.

We're also breaking down a real testimonial example to show you how to pull out the most impactful pieces, what you can (and can't) edit ethically, and where to place them on your site for maximum impact. Whether you're brand new and only have one testimonial or you have dozens and don't know which to use, this episode will help you make the most of your social proof.

Topics We Cover

1. Why getting testimonials is harder than it seems
2. Dianna's process for gathering testimonials (with a freebie!)
3. Joanna's process using questionnaires in 17Hats
4. How to ask specific questions that get better answers
5. The difference between vague and specific testimonial questions
6. Live examples: Asking the wrong vs. right questions
7. When to send testimonial requests
8. How many times to follow up without being annoying
9. Where testimonials have the biggest impact on your website
10. Why you shouldn't have a dedicated testimonials page
11. Using testimonials at decision-making points on your site
12. What you can and can't do ethically with testimonials
13. Pulling testimonials from emails, DMs, and social media comments
14. Breaking down a real testimonial example
15. How to make the most of one testimonial when you're just starting out
16. What to do when you have too many testimonials to choose from

Time Stamps

03:43 – Why getting testimonials is harder than it seems

04:50 – How Joanna learned to get better testimonials

06:06 – Dianna's process for gathering testimonials

09:29 – When and how to follow up

13:14 – Client Voice Hacking Guide (free download below!)

13:48 – Examples of vague vs. specific questions

18:40 – Following up without being annoying

22:37 – What you can and can't do with testimonials

25:23 – Where to use testimonials on your website

27:27 – Using testimonials at decision-making points

30:15 – Pulling testimonials from DMs and emails

33:37 – Breaking down a real testimonial example

36:16 – What to do when you're brand new and don't have many testimonials

Links & Resources Mentioned

Dianna's copywriting studio: Rise Copy Co. — website & launch copy for creative women in business: risecopyco.com

Joanna's web design studio: Joanna Moss Creative — custom Showit websites & Website in Two Weeks: joannamoss.com

Free download: Client Voice Hacking Guide — Dianna's exact process and questions for getting compelling testimonials (https://risecopyco.myflodesk.com/clientvoicehackingguide)

Episode 14: Navigating the Trust Recession (referenced in this episode) Listen on Apple // Listen on Spotify