So I was having a bit of a twitter chat with a friend and fellow nlper about the power of testimonials… specifically; when you get other people to get them on your behalf.

This chat made me wonder if I should reveal a secret formula I use with my clients to get truly gushing, powerful testimonials. I’ve never given this away for free before…

It’s really easy to get fantastic testimonials when an independent third party phones up on your behalf and asks for a reference or testimonial. And yes, phone is massively better than email.

My formula is simple: 5 Psychologically Smart Questions for Testimonials

I was using this just recently, for a corporate client who specialises in cost reduction services for other businesses.

Calling on their behalf (as an independent party) and using the formula, enabled me to get genuine, incredible quotes like this:

“People who haven’t had to cost-cut don’t realise they need to do it…

… The beauty of it is that it saves your business time and resources.  You’d have to have a full time, qualified specialist to match this!”

The Formula:

1. What was the problem you faced before you used/met <insert business/product/service>?

2. What happened when you worked with/met <insert business/product/service>?

3. How do you feel about that?

4. How is the future looking now?

5. Who would you recommend use this <insert business/product/service>?

The only other secret you need to know is this: Once they start talking, shut up. The best answers happen when you leave silences to fill.

Got a better question to ask satisfied customers? Any questions? Speak up in the comment section below…