When companies talk about their products or services, it’s no surprise they focus on their best qualities—it’s what they’re supposed to do.
But let’s be honest: potential clients don’t just want to hear how great a company thinks it is. They want to know what other customers think. That’s where the power of client testimonials comes in.
Client testimonials bridge the trust gap between businesses and their audience through social proof. In fact, 86% of shoppers are more likely to purchase when they see positive star ratings and reviews on a homepage.
I’ll show why testimonials are a must-have for any business and share the impact of client testimonial examples when it’s done right. Let’s get into it!
Why Are Client Testimonials So Important?
Client testimonials are a game-changer for businesses. They’re not just feel-good quotes; they’re proof that your products or services actually deliver results. Here’s why they matter so much:
1. They Build Trust
People trust people. It’s that simple. Seeing positive feedback from others who’ve already taken the leap makes potential clients feel more confident about choosing your business.
In fact, 92% of people trust recommendations from people they know over brands. Testimonials give you that “seal of approval” from real customers, which is way more convincing than anything you could say about yourself.
2. They Highlight Pain Points and Solutions
A great testimonial does more than praise your business—it shows how you’ve solved real problems.
For example, if a customer mentions how your product helped them save time, reduce stress, or achieve a goal, it speaks directly to others who might be dealing with the same struggles.
It’s relatable and shows that your solution works in real-life situations.
3. They Drive Conversions
At the end of the day, testimonials help you close the deal. When potential customers see others raving about your business, they’re more likely to feel confident and make a purchase.
According to Wyzowl, 66.67% of people are more likely to buy something after watching a video testimonial that shows how it helped someone similar to them.
Testimonials are like the gentle nudge that pushes someone from “thinking about it” to “hitting the buy button.” When it comes to building social proof, client testimonials are the best thing you can ask for.
9 Client Testimonial Examples That Show You Deliver Real Results
When people think of testimonials, they usually think about quotes. But the truth is you can go about collecting client testimonials in many ways. Here are some of the best examples of how you can collect client testimonials:
1. Quote Testimonials
Quote testimonials are one of the most popular and effective ways to showcase your customers’ positive experiences with your brand.
These testimonials feature short, impactful quotes from clients, often paired with their name, role, company, and sometimes a photo or logo for added authenticity.
They’re simple to create, easy to understand, and versatile enough to include on websites, landing pages, emails, or even social media posts.
What makes quote testimonials powerful is their relatability. Potential customers are more likely to trust feedback from peers who have faced similar challenges and found success with your product or service.
Real-Life Example: Basecamp
Basecamp, a project management software, uses quote testimonials effectively on its website. Each testimonial is concise—just a few sentences long—and highlights the specific benefits of using the software. For example:
“I’ve launched basecamp in multiple companies I’ve worked for all with great success. It makes people feel like they are being heard, and also creates a simple, manageable to-do list that employees can work from.”
Basecamp also emphasizes these testimonials by bolding key phrases like “It makes people feel like they are being heard”, making them easy to skim and impactful at a glance.
Why Quote Testimonials Work
- They’re relatable: They use the customer’s own words, making the praise feel authentic.
- They’re easy to digest: Short and to the point, they grab attention without overwhelming the reader.
- They build trust: Adding a name, title, or photo makes them more credible.
Template for a Quote Testimonial
Here’s a simple template you can share with your clients to help them craft a compelling quote testimonial:
“Before using [Your Product/Service], we struggled with [specific challenge]. Since switching to [Your Product/Service], we’ve [specific benefit, e.g., saved time, increased revenue, improved efficiency]. It’s been a game-changer for us, and we couldn’t be happier!”
Pro Tip
If possible, ask clients for measurable results or specific improvements, like “saved 10 hours a week” or “increased leads by 50%.” Pair the quote with their photo or company logo for maximum credibility.
Incorporating quote testimonials into your marketing can make a big impact by giving potential customers real-world proof of your product’s value.
2. Video Testimonials
Video testimonials are a powerful way to showcase your customers’ positive experiences. They’re engaging, authentic, and allow potential clients to see and hear real people talk about your brand.
Compared to written testimonials, video brings stories to life, making them more relatable and impactful. That’s why more and more companies are using video testimonials to build trust with their clients.
In fact, 91% of businesses use video as a marketing tool. And it will only keep getting higher from here on.
Real-Life Example: Memorisely
Memorisely, a popular UX bootcamp, uses video testimonials on their homepage to showcase their students’ success stories.
These videos highlight not just the students’ results but their entire experience, including interactions with the brand and the value they received.
This comprehensive storytelling approach makes the testimonials feel genuine and relatable, helping to attract more students.
Why Video Testimonials Work
Videos are highly engaging and allow people to connect emotionally with the speaker. Seeing facial expressions and hearing tone of voice adds authenticity that words alone can’t achieve.
Plus, video is harder to fake, which builds trust. Research shows that video testimonials can boost conversion rates, making them a smart addition to your marketing strategy.
Template for a Video Testimonial
Want to create your own video testimonials? Share this template with your customers to make it easy:
- Introduce yourself: “Hi, I’m [Name], and I work as a [Job Title] at [Company].”
- State the problem: “Before discovering [Your Product/Service], I was struggling with [specific issue].”
- Highlight the solution: “Using [Your Product/Service] made a huge difference by [specific benefit].”
- Share the result: “Since implementing it, we’ve [achieved specific result, e.g., increased sales by X%, saved time, reduced costs].”
- Conclude with a recommendation: “I highly recommend [Your Brand] to anyone looking to [solve a similar problem or achieve a specific goal].”
Pro Tip
Keep the videos short—under three minutes works best. If possible, make it shorter than one minute as attention spans of people are at an all-time low.
Video testimonials add personality and trust to your brand, making them a valuable asset for converting leads into loyal customers.
3. Social Media Testimonials
Social media testimonials are a goldmine for authentic, relatable feedback. Did you know that 3 out of 4 people use social media to research brands?
When customers share their experiences on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, they’re offering public praise that feels genuine and spontaneous.
These testimonials can be a game-changer for your brand when showcased effectively.
Real-Life Example: Sprout Social
Sprout Social does a great job of leveraging social media testimonials with their Wall of Love. They embed customer tweets directly on their website, letting visitors see real feedback from users.
Because the tweets are direct from Twitter, they feel completely credible. It’s proof straight from the source, without any edits.
Why Social Media Testimonials Work
These testimonials work because they’re public and unfiltered, making them highly trustworthy. Seeing someone’s real post about how much they love your product or service feels more natural than a polished marketing piece.
Plus, social media’s informal tone adds a personal touch that resonates with potential customers.
Template for Social Media Testimonials
If you want to encourage social media testimonials, share this template with your audience:
- Tag us! “I’ve been using [Your Product/Service] for [timeframe], and it’s been amazing!”
- Highlight the benefit: “It’s helped me [specific result or improvement].”
- Share the love: “If you’re looking for [specific need], you have to check out [Your Brand]!”
Example:
“I’ve been using @BrandApp for six months, and it’s a game-changer! It’s helped me save hours on project management every week. Highly recommend it to anyone looking for a simple, efficient tool!”
Pro Tip
Don’t just wait for customers to tag you—actively engage. Respond to their posts, thank them for sharing, and ask for permission to showcase their feedback on your website.
Embedding real social media posts into your content adds credibility and makes your testimonials stand out.
Social media testimonials combine authenticity and reach, making them one of the most impactful ways to build trust with new audiences.
4. Website Testimonials
Website testimonials are one of the most effective ways to nudge potential customers toward choosing your product or service.
When placed strategically on your homepage, landing pages, or even a dedicated testimonials page, they provide powerful social proof that builds trust and credibility.
Real-Life Example: SEMrush
SEMrush, a leading digital marketing platform, prominently features testimonials from its users to highlight the real-world value they experience from the tool.
For example, Casey Camilleir Marx at Nlyte Software, shared, “I’ve been using SEMrush for 7+ years now and heavily rely on it to help me move whatever site I’m working on to the top of Google.”
Why Website Testimonials Work
These testimonials are so effective because they’re right where potential customers are making their decisions. Seeing a relatable success story or measurable results reassures them that your product is a smart investment.
Plus, when you pair testimonials with visuals like photos, videos, or logos, it adds a layer of authenticity that words alone can’t match.
Template for a Website Testimonial
Want to collect impactful testimonials for your website? Share this template with your customers to help them frame their thoughts:
“Using [Your Product/Service], I was able to [specific result, e.g., save time, increase sales, grow my team]. Before this, I struggled with [specific challenge]. Now, [Your Product/Service] has made [specific improvement or benefit]. It’s been a total game-changer!”
Pro Tip
Always include a clear call-to-action (CTA) next to your testimonials. For example, Salesforce places a “Start My Free Trial” button right next to their customer success stories, making it easy for potential customers to take the next step.
Website testimonials combine convenience and credibility. When done right, they guide prospects seamlessly from consideration to conversion while reinforcing the value of your brand.
5. Case Study Testimonials
Case study testimonials go beyond a quick quote or video—they provide an in-depth look at how your product or service helped a customer achieve meaningful results.
These are especially popular in B2B because they combine storytelling with data, offering a detailed narrative that resonates with potential clients.
Real-Life Example: Slack
Slack’s customer stories are a perfect example of case study testimonials done right.
Each story includes a mix of video and written content, featuring quotes from the client, photos of their team, and specific results like improved team communication or faster workflows.
These case studies are designed to be relatable, human, and data-driven, making them incredibly effective at showcasing Slack’s value.
Why Case Study Testimonials Work
Case studies are powerful because they highlight the entire journey, from the customer’s initial problem to the solution your business provided. They show measurable results, offering tangible proof of your impact.
Unlike short testimonials, case studies allow you to dive deeper into your unique process or strategy, giving potential customers a clearer picture of what to expect.
Template for a Case Study Testimonial
Here’s a simple structure you can share with clients to guide them through creating a case study testimonial:
- Introduction: How did you first hear about [Your Business]?
- The Challenge: What problems were you facing before working with us?
- The Solution: How did [Your Product/Service] address your challenges?
- The Results: What specific outcomes or improvements have you seen?
- Conclusion: Would you recommend [Your Business] to others? Why?
Pro Tip
Use visuals to enhance your case studies. Include charts, photos, or even video snippets to make the story more engaging and easier to digest. Bright, relatable photography can draw readers in and make the page feel more human.
Case study testimonials are the ultimate way to build trust, providing a detailed success story that turns prospects into believers.
6. Interview Testimonials
Interview testimonials are a fantastic way to showcase authentic customer experiences in a detailed and personal format.
Whether written, video, or audio, this style digs deep into your client’s journey, highlighting specific challenges, how your product or service helped, and the tangible results they achieved.
Real-Life Example: Airbnb
Airbnb does an excellent job with customer host stories. On their YouTube channel, they feature interviews with hosts who share their experiences of how Airbnb has transformed their lives and businesses.
These hosts discuss the challenges they faced before joining the platform, the benefits they’ve gained, and how hosting has helped them build stronger connections with travelers.
Why Interview Testimonials Work
These testimonials are dynamic because they provide a conversational, real-world look into how your offering has made a difference.
By addressing relatable questions like “What problem were you facing?” or “What results have you seen?” they help potential customers envision how your product or service can solve their own issues.
Plus, the interactive Q&A format makes the story feel more genuine and engaging.
Template for an Interview Testimonial
Here’s a simple structure to guide your customer interviews:
- Background: “Tell us a bit about yourself and how you discovered [Your Product/Service].”
- The Problem: “What challenges were you facing before using our product/service?”
- The Solution: “How did [Your Product/Service] address those challenges?”
- The Results: “What specific benefits or results have you seen since using our product/service?”
- The Recommendation: “What would you say to someone considering [Your Product/Service]?”
Pro Tip
Keep the interview conversational. Build rapport with your client before diving into the questions to help them feel comfortable and open. This will make their answers more natural and relatable.
Interview testimonials allow you to tell a complete customer success story, creating a powerful and persuasive narrative for your audience.
7. Blog Testimonials
Blog testimonials are a unique and detailed way to showcase customer experiences.
Whether it’s a post on your own blog or a review written by a client on their personal site, these long-form testimonials dive deeper into how your product or service made an impact.
Blog testimonials often combine storytelling with specific benefits, helping potential customers connect on a personal level.
Real-Life Example: Shopify
Shopify took customer stories to the next level by showcasing the success of entrepreneurs using their platform.
They featured Hannah Perry, the founder of Floof Cotton Candy, in a blog post where she shared how Shopify helped her grow her business.
By highlighting her journey, Shopify not only provided an inspiring story but also leveraged her experience to build trust with potential users.
This approach gave Shopify valuable, authentic content that resonated with a broader audience while showcasing the tangible impact of their platform.
Why Blog Testimonials Work
Blog testimonials are powerful because they provide depth and context. They allow clients to share their story in their own words, giving readers a raw and authentic perspective.
When customers take the time to write about their experience, it feels more personal and credible. Plus, when clients post on their own blog, their followers get introduced to your product, adding reach and credibility.
Template for a Blog Testimonial
If you want to encourage clients to write a blog post, here’s a template you can share with them:
- Introduce the Problem: “Before using [Your Product/Service], we struggled with [specific issue].”
- Describe the Solution: “We decided to try [Your Product/Service], and it helped us by [specific benefit].”
- Share the Results: “Since implementing it, we’ve seen [specific outcome, e.g., increased revenue, time saved, happier customers].”
- Conclude with a Recommendation: “We highly recommend [Your Product/Service] to anyone looking to [solve a similar problem].”
Pro Tip
If your clients post the testimonial on their blog, amplify it by sharing it on your own social channels and linking back to their page. This builds mutual visibility and strengthens relationships.
Blog testimonials are a win-win, offering long-form, detailed insights while expanding your reach.
8. Peer Review Testimonials
Peer review testimonials are some of the most trusted forms of feedback. Found on platforms like Yelp, Trustpilot, G2, or Google My Business, these reviews offer authentic, unbiased insights from real customers.
Potential clients often rely on these reviews during their decision-making process, making them an essential part of building credibility for your brand.
Real-Life Example: Agency Handy on G2
Agency Handy, effectively uses peer review testimonials on G2 to establish credibility. Customers highlight its ease of use and robust customer support, with one review stating,
“Agency Handy is a fantastic client portal tool for agencies due to its user-friendly interface, making it easy for clients to access and navigate.”
By showcasing these reviews, Agency Handy reassures potential customers about its value and reliability, ultimately driving sales.
Why Peer Review Testimonials Work
These testimonials work because they’re organic and transparent.
Customers know the reviewers weren’t coerced into leaving feedback, which adds a layer of trust.
When a business has strong reviews on trusted platforms, it signals reliability and quality, helping convert hesitant prospects into confident buyers.
Template for a Peer Review Request
Want to boost your presence on review platforms? Share this template with your customers:
Subject: Share Your Experience with [Your Business]!
Hi [Customer’s Name],
We’re so grateful for your support and would love to hear about your experience with [Your Product/Service]. If you have a moment, please leave a quick review on [Review Platform]. Your feedback not only helps us improve but also helps others discover the value we offer.
Here’s a link to leave your review: [Insert Link]
Thank you for being part of our journey!
Best,
[Your Name/Company]
Pro Tip
Actively monitor and engage with reviews. Responding to both positive and negative feedback shows you value your customers’ opinions and are dedicated to improving their experience.
Peer review testimonials are the digital equivalent of word-of-mouth recommendations, making them a must-have for building trust and boosting conversions.
9. Influencer Testimonials
Influencer testimonials are endorsements from well-known figures in your industry or niche who vouch for your product or service.
Whether it’s a celebrity, an industry expert, or a popular social media personality, having an influencer back your brand can build instant credibility and help you tap into their loyal following.
Real-Life Example: Four Sigmatic
Four Sigmatic, a brand known for its mushroom coffee, effectively uses influencer testimonials on its homepage.
They feature quotes from health and wellness experts, including New York Times bestselling authors and creatives like art directors. These endorsements add credibility and appeal directly to their health-conscious audience.
Why Influencer Testimonials Work
People trust influencers because they’ve built credibility and connections with their audience.
When an influencer shares their experience with your product, it feels like a recommendation from a friend—making their followers more likely to trust your brand.
These testimonials don’t just boost trust; they also expand your reach by exposing your product to the influencer’s audience.
Template for an Influencer Testimonial Request
If you’re reaching out to influencers, here’s a simple message you can use:
Hi [Influencer’s Name],
I’m [Your Name], and I’m a huge fan of your work in [specific area]. I think your audience would love [Your Product/Service], and I’d be thrilled to send you a sample to try. If it’s a good fit, I’d love to discuss how we can work together to share your honest experience with our product. Let me know what you think!
Best regards,
[Your Name/Company]
Pro Tip
Start with micro-influencers if you’re on a tight budget. They may have smaller followings, but their engagement rates are often higher, and their audience tends to trust them deeply.
Influencer testimonials combine authority and relatability, making them one of the most impactful ways to build trust and expand your brand’s visibility.
How to Ask for a Client Testimonial
Asking for a client testimonial doesn’t have to be awkward or complicated. With a simple and thoughtful approach, you can collect valuable feedback that highlights your work.
Here are some easy ways to ask for a testimonial:
1. Just Ask—Directly and Casually
Sometimes, the best way to get a testimonial is to simply ask. If you have a happy client who’s been using your product or service for a while, reach out with a friendly email or conversation.
Keep it casual and straightforward, like:
“Hey [Client’s Name], I really appreciate the trust you’ve placed in us. Would you mind sharing a quick testimonial about your experience? It can be as simple as how we’ve helped with [specific problem] or what you’ve enjoyed about working with us.”
By making the request easy and specific, you’re more likely to get a response.
2. Follow Up on Positive Feedback
Pay attention to when clients share positive feedback. If they send you a thank-you email, leave a glowing review on social media, or mention something great about your product in a conversation, seize the moment!
Reach out and ask if you can share their words as a testimonial. Most people will be happy to help.
3. Make It Easy for Them
The easier you make it, the more likely they’ll agree. Offer to provide a template or guide them with a few simple questions, like:
- What challenge were you facing before using our service?
- How did we help solve it?
- What’s been the most significant change since working with us?
You can also give them the option to approve a draft if they don’t feel like writing something from scratch. This ensures they’re comfortable with what’s being shared.
4. Show Your Appreciation
Always express gratitude when someone agrees to give a testimonial. A heartfelt thank-you email, a small token of appreciation, or even a social media shoutout can go a long way in showing you value their effort.
With these tips, asking for testimonials feels less like a chore and more like an opportunity to celebrate your clients’ success!
Tips for Collecting High-Quality Testimonials
Getting great testimonials isn’t just about asking for them—it’s about how and when you ask. Here are a few tips to help you collect feedback that feels authentic and resonates with your audience.
1. Understand Who You’re Talking To
Before reaching out, be clear about who your target audience is. The people giving testimonials should align with the customers you’re trying to attract.
If the testimonial comes from someone who doesn’t match your audience’s profile, even glowing feedback might not hit the mark. Focus on testimonials that address specific needs or concerns your potential customers might have.
For example, if onboarding is a big selling point for your service, look for testimonials that highlight that process.
2. Choose the Right Moment
Timing is everything. The best time to ask for a testimonial is when the customer is feeling excited or pleased with their experience.
If someone emails you with glowing feedback or leaves a kind comment on social media, that’s your cue to ask for a testimonial.
Strike while the iron’s hot—people are much more likely to say yes when their positive experience is still fresh in their mind.
3. Give Them Some Guidance
Sometimes, people want to help but don’t know what to say. That’s where a little direction can go a long way. Share a few prompts or examples to help them focus.
Instead of saying, “Just tell us what you think,” try asking questions like, “What challenge were you facing before using our product?” or “How has our service made a difference for you?”
This keeps their feedback meaningful without feeling scripted.
4. Use Tools to Simplify Things
Technology can make gathering testimonials easier and more organized. Tools like transcription software or customer feedback platforms can help capture insights quickly and accurately.
They can also make it easier to sort and analyze the feedback you receive.
5. Always Get Final Approval
Before publishing any testimonial, double-check with the customer. Send them the final version for review to ensure they’re comfortable with what you’re sharing.
Whether it’s a video or a written quote, getting their explicit consent avoids potential issues later. Plus, it shows respect for their input and builds trust.
With the right approach, collecting meaningful testimonials becomes a smooth and rewarding process—for both you and your customers.
Conclusion
Client testimonials are more than just kind words—they’re powerful tools for building trust, credibility, and connections with your audience.
From quick quotes to detailed case studies, each type offers unique ways to showcase your impact.
By collecting authentic feedback, sharing it strategically, and tailoring it to your audience, you can turn happy customers into your best advocates. Let your clients’ voices do the talking for you through the testimonials!
FAQS
1. Where should I display testimonials?
Place them on your homepage, landing pages, and product pages. Use them in emails, social media, and even pop-ups for maximum visibility.
2. Are influencer testimonials worth it?
Yes, if the influencer aligns with your brand values. They can build trust and expand your reach by introducing your product to their loyal audience.
3. How can I make testimonials more credible?
Add client names, roles, photos, or logos. Use measurable results like percentages or time saved to make them more impactful.
4. Do testimonials need to follow legal guidelines?
Yes. If you’re paying for endorsements, ensure it’s disclosed clearly, as per FTC guidelines, to maintain transparency and trust.
5. How do I choose which testimonials to feature?
Pick testimonials that address common customer concerns, highlight unique benefits, or showcase measurable results relevant to your audience.
