Testimonials (recommendations) are among the best ways for freelancers to highlight their talents, skills, and customer service levels.
I’m just a freelancer standing in front of a corporation, asking for help
Once you’ve completed a project with a freelancer, there’s a fair chance they will ask you for a testimonial. What is your reaction?
- Uh, I haven’t got time for this – delete
- Nope – I don’t do testimonials
- Of course, I’ll put it in my to-do pile…
First, it’s important to state that the request has not been sent to give you more work.
You see, freelancers don’t have massive marketing budgets. Therefore, the most effective way for them to show other potential clients what they can do is to provide real-life examples of how their work has helped other clients.
A testimonial doesn’t have to be war and peace
I understand you’re busy, and the last thing you need is a supplier bugging you for a testimonial. But that small act will mean the world to them and their business.
Take my business as an example. I’m a freelance copywriter lucky enough to work for some big brands. A few lines from past clients, such as these, make a huge impact on my business:
Not only do they illustrate what I am like to work with, but they also show my capability of working with large corporations. You see, just because you’re a behemoth doesn’t mean you can get great value and quality from a small fish like me. Freelancers can add massive value to the biggest corporations through expertise, agility, and value for money.
Please don’t ignore our requests
Whether it’s through a LinkedIn recommendation request or a direct email asking for a testimonial, please remember how much it will mean to get a response.
You don’t have to write a lot. Just your honest opinion of how the project went, how it was delivered, and its impact on your business.
You’ll be amazed at the difference a few minutes of your time can make to a freelancer.
Thank you.
Sally Ormond, professional freelance copywriter