Testimonials are a great marketing tool.
A client can say things you can't, and there is nothing quite like word of mouth for advertising.
What others say matters and can help generate business for you.
I've found this to be true for my own residential real estate brokerage firm and hope these marketing tips will be helpful to you as well.
Ask for the testimonial.
After you've helped that client find the perfect home, don't stand around and wait.
Ask for a testimonial - One simple, effective way is to send a letter to clients that were happy with your service and ask for their comments.
Simply ask them to jot down their thoughts/opinions on the back of the letter and return it to you (include a self-addressed, stamped envelope).
Keep testimonials specific.
A good testimonial is explicit, avoids hyperbole, and focuses on a particular strength.
There is nothing wrong in guiding your client.
Feel free to remind them of specific requirements that made their situation unique and how you helped fulfill them.
Get permission to use the testimonial.
If a client has sent an unsolicited testimonial ask permission to use it.
Get this in writing.
A simple form, with a place for them to sign is an easy way to take care of this.
(Again, include a SASE.
) Protect your clients' privacy.
Make sure your clients know you plan to use their words publicly.
Do not divulge too much information about customers.
Generally avoid giving last names and contact information unless you have specific written permission to do so.
Don't over edit.
After your client has made the effort, don't spend too much time "cleaning it up".
You want your testimonials to be unique and reflect the spirit of your clients.
It keeps it all real and believable.
Send your clients a link.
Once you've posted their words, send them a link.
People enjoy seeing their words in print.
It is a nice way to say thanks and will increase traffic to your site.
Never fake it.
Need I say more? It isn't worth the embarrassment or the damage to your reputation to be caught in a lie.
Don't relegate testimonials to your Testimonial Page forever.
Too many testimonials spend their lives wasting away on the Testimonial Page of a website.
Drag them out, dust them off, and put them to work for you.
Use appropriate testimonials in blogs and posts, on your website, in brochures and flyers, or on the back of business cards.
Include endorsements on information sheets, media releases, and advertisements as well.
Get creative and get the word out.
A client can say things you can't, and there is nothing quite like word of mouth for advertising.
What others say matters and can help generate business for you.
I've found this to be true for my own residential real estate brokerage firm and hope these marketing tips will be helpful to you as well.
Ask for the testimonial.
After you've helped that client find the perfect home, don't stand around and wait.
Ask for a testimonial - One simple, effective way is to send a letter to clients that were happy with your service and ask for their comments.
Simply ask them to jot down their thoughts/opinions on the back of the letter and return it to you (include a self-addressed, stamped envelope).
Keep testimonials specific.
A good testimonial is explicit, avoids hyperbole, and focuses on a particular strength.
There is nothing wrong in guiding your client.
Feel free to remind them of specific requirements that made their situation unique and how you helped fulfill them.
Get permission to use the testimonial.
If a client has sent an unsolicited testimonial ask permission to use it.
Get this in writing.
A simple form, with a place for them to sign is an easy way to take care of this.
(Again, include a SASE.
) Protect your clients' privacy.
Make sure your clients know you plan to use their words publicly.
Do not divulge too much information about customers.
Generally avoid giving last names and contact information unless you have specific written permission to do so.
Don't over edit.
After your client has made the effort, don't spend too much time "cleaning it up".
You want your testimonials to be unique and reflect the spirit of your clients.
It keeps it all real and believable.
Send your clients a link.
Once you've posted their words, send them a link.
People enjoy seeing their words in print.
It is a nice way to say thanks and will increase traffic to your site.
Never fake it.
Need I say more? It isn't worth the embarrassment or the damage to your reputation to be caught in a lie.
Don't relegate testimonials to your Testimonial Page forever.
Too many testimonials spend their lives wasting away on the Testimonial Page of a website.
Drag them out, dust them off, and put them to work for you.
Use appropriate testimonials in blogs and posts, on your website, in brochures and flyers, or on the back of business cards.
Include endorsements on information sheets, media releases, and advertisements as well.
Get creative and get the word out.