3 Simple Questions to Gain a Quality Testimonial

When it comes to building trust and credibility for your business, few things are as effective as quality testimonials or case studies. These powerful tools showcase the great work you’ve done and make it easier for potential customers to choose your business.

But here’s the challenge: many business owners struggle with what to ask when requesting testimonials. It can feel clunky or awkward, but it doesn’t have to be. With a simple approach and a few well-crafted questions, you can gather testimonials that resonate and convert.

The Rule of Three: Simple Questions for Impactful Testimonials

Keep it simple. Start with three straightforward questions that will highlight your customer’s experience and your business’s value. Here are the three key questions to ask:

1. What was the problem you had before choosing our business, and what’s the situation like now?
   This question helps potential customers relate to the challenges your client faced and see the transformation your service provided. For example:
   • “We needed a quality builder to create our forever home for retirement.”
   • “Our hot water system broke in the middle of winter, but now we have one that works efficiently.”
2. What prompted you to choose us?
   This question uncovers the deciding factors that led the customer to pick your business. It could be:
   • Quality of service.
   • Value for money.
   • A recommendation from a friend or family member.
     Knowing this also helps you understand what sets you apart in the market.
3. What would you say to someone considering using our services?
   This is where you get to hear the customer’s endorsement in their own words. Ideally, responses will sound like:
   • “I’d highly recommend their services to anyone needing a reliable plumber or builder.”
     This provides social proof and encourages others to trust your business.

How to Request and Craft Testimonials

Here’s a step-by-step process to make gathering testimonials simple and effective:

1. Reach Out to Your Customers
   Start by calling or emailing customers who’ve had a great experience with your business. Be upfront:
   • Explain you’re collecting testimonials to build trust and credibility.
   • Let them know it’s a simple process with just three questions.
2. Provide a Questionnaire
   Email the three questions to your customers in a clear and concise format.
3. Refine the Responses
   Once you receive their answers, take the time to craft them into a polished paragraph. You’re not changing their words—just fine-tuning for readability and flow.
4. Seek Permission and Show Appreciation
   • Call the customer to thank them.
   • Share the finalized testimonial and ask for their approval to post it on your website or social media.
   • Send a small token of appreciation, like a gift card or bottle of wine, to express your gratitude.

Building Momentum: One Testimonial at a Time

The key to gathering testimonials is consistency. Start small. Even if you only collect one testimonial a week, by the end of the year, you’ll have 50! Imagine the impact of having 50 glowing testimonials showcasing your expertise and customer satisfaction.

Why Testimonials Matter

Testimonials do more than just look good on your website—they build trust, showcase credibility, and create a connection with potential customers. By sharing real experiences, you help others see the value of your services and make their decision-making process easier.

Take Action Today

Follow the rule of three, keep it simple, and start building your testimonial collection. In just a year, you could transform the credibility of your business and brand.

Looking for more tips on growing your business? Get in touch, and we’ll help you take the next steps.