MM #95: How to Get Fantastic Testimonials

1. Announcements/Offers

What People are Saying About 'First Fifty Clients'?

Simply Brilliant!!!!!

I listened to the disc for the first time on Monday and have already booked 45 people for exploratory sessions. I may have to extend my goal to 100 people in 100 days. I never knew I could inspire people to take advantage of a free session. You have motivated me into action and I wish to thank you for this. " - Loretta Digger, UK

Visit First Fifty Clients

2. FEATURE: How To Get Fantastic Testimonials

Testimonials can be extremely valuable to a coaching business. Not only do they show prospective clients that you have successfully worked with others, they show YOU that you have made a difference in your client's life or company. Yet many people are afraid to ask for them.

Getting testimonials is easy and in my CoachStart™ Manual I give you all the steps you need.

Let's summarize a few here...

It's important to get at least three good testimonials. They can be short, but should promote your credibility, confidence, and services.

You must also get their permission to use the testimonials publicly, in your brochures, website, portfolio, etc.

The more information you can include, such as full name, title, company name, email address, etc. the more credible the testimonial. If you can get a picture, even better!

Through Instant Audio you can even have them call a phone number and record their testimonial - then add a link to the testimonial on your web site.

Quick Testimonial Tips

• Get in the habit of asking for a testimonial each time you finish up with a client or when they are particularly excited about something they've achieved with your help

• Don't be afraid to ask someone you've given just an Exploratory or Trial session to.

• Start collecting positive e-mails and letters now – this will give you a good start in asking for testimonial later. You may even just use those e-mails! (with permission).

• I suggest tweaking it to the language you want, and then ask the client for approval of the final edit.

• When you speak to a club or company, get agreement in advance for a testimonial.

Sources of Testimonials

Possible sources of testimonials include your friends and colleagues.

Let them know you are starting your Coaching business and ask them to jot down how you have helped them – managing former employees, counseling someone on a problem, or just giving advice that really helped them. Or offer them a coaching session so they become one of your first clients!

Of course your actual clients are a great source for testimonials. If you are new, you can offer free coaching for a month on a particular topic in return for a testimonial. Past clients of any type can also give testimonials, even if not specific to coaching. Statements such as "Thank you for helping me with my relationship goals – you've made a difference" are powerful statements.

Use Your Testimonials

Once you've gathered your testimonials, print them out, put them on your website, share with prospective clients – Use Them!

Action

1. Jot down the names of six-ten people whom you have assisted in some way in the past.


2. Ask these people to email you with 1 paragraph on how you have helped them move forward in their life.


3. If you like, share some of your favorite testimonials at the blog!

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This was drawn from The CoachStart™ Manual, found together with hundreds of dollars in free bonuses, here.


Enjoy!

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