Testimonials are one of the most powerful tools for freelancers. They build trust, credibility, and social proof, making it easier to attract high-paying clients.
Potential clients want to see real experiences from others before hiring a freelancer. If you don’t have strong testimonials, you may lose work to competitors who do.
In this guide, we’ll cover why testimonials are essential and how to ask clients for them effectively.
1. Why Are Testimonials Important for Freelancers?
📌 Why?
Testimonials help you stand out from competitors and convince new clients to hire you.
✔ Provide social proof that your work delivers results.
✔ Reduce client hesitation by showing that others trust you.
✔ Strengthen your personal brand and portfolio.
🔹 Example of a Strong Testimonial:
“Working with [Your Name] was an incredible experience. They delivered high-quality work on time and exceeded our expectations. Highly recommended!”
💡 Tip: Good testimonials focus on results and client satisfaction.
2. The Best Time to Ask for a Testimonial
📌 Why?
Asking at the right moment increases the chances of getting positive and detailed testimonials.
✔ Ask immediately after delivering a successful project.
✔ If a client praises your work in an email, follow up and ask for a formal testimonial.
✔ For long-term clients, ask after a milestone or major achievement.
🔹 Example Timing:
📅 Right after completing a website redesign
📅 After a client gets great results from your work
📅 During a follow-up email thanking them for their business
💡 Tip: Clients are more willing to give feedback when they are excited about your work.
3. How to Ask Clients for Testimonials (With Templates)
📌 Why?
Clients are busy—make it easy for them to give feedback.
✔ Keep your request short and clear.
✔ Offer guiding questions to help them write a useful testimonial.
✔ Ask via email, LinkedIn, or a feedback form.
🔹 Example Testimonial Request Email:
📩 Subject: Quick Testimonial Request
*”Hi [Client’s Name], I really enjoyed working on [Project Name] with you! If you have a moment, I’d love a short testimonial about your experience.
You can mention things like:
✅ What was your experience working with me?
✅ How did my work help your business?
✅ Would you recommend my services?
It would really mean a lot, and I’d be happy to feature your business on my portfolio as well. Thanks so much!”*
💡 Tip: Providing questions makes it easier for clients to give a great testimonial.
4. Where to Display Your Testimonials for Maximum Impact
📌 Why?
The right placement of testimonials increases conversions and client trust.
✔ Add them to your website’s homepage and portfolio.
✔ Include a few on your LinkedIn profile.
✔ Use testimonials in freelance proposals and email pitches.
🔹 Example Placement:
✅ Your website’s homepage and services page
✅ Your LinkedIn “Recommendations” section
✅ Inside your freelance proposals and invoices
💡 Tip: A well-placed testimonial can help you land more high-paying clients.
5. How to Make Testimonials More Powerful
📌 Why?
Some testimonials are more convincing than others—make yours as strong as possible.
✔ Ask clients to mention specific results or improvements.
✔ Include the client’s full name, company, and photo (if possible).
✔ Use video testimonials for even more impact.
🔹 Example of a Weak vs. Strong Testimonial:
❌ Weak: “Great freelancer. Did a good job.”
✅ Strong: “Since hiring [Your Name], our website traffic increased by 40%, and our conversion rates doubled. They were professional, reliable, and delivered excellent work.”
💡 Tip: Testimonials with specific numbers and outcomes build more credibility.
6. Offer an Incentive for Clients to Leave a Testimonial
📌 Why?
Sometimes, clients need a small incentive to take time and write a testimonial.
✔ Offer a discount on future services.
✔ Feature their business in your social media or blog.
✔ Give them priority booking for upcoming projects.
🔹 Example Offer:
“As a thank you for your testimonial, I’d love to feature your business on my website and share it with my audience.”
💡 Tip: Keep incentives ethical—never pay for fake testimonials.
7. Repurpose Testimonials for Maximum Visibility
📌 Why?
A single testimonial can be used in multiple ways to boost your freelance brand.
✔ Turn client quotes into social media graphics.
✔ Add them to case studies or blog posts.
✔ Include them in cold email pitches to new clients.
🔹 Example of a Testimonial Graphic for Social Media:
🖼️ A high-quality image with a quote from a happy client + your logo
💡 Tip: Sharing testimonials across multiple platforms increases your credibility.
8. Keep a Testimonial Request System in Place
📌 Why?
If you wait too long to ask, you might miss the opportunity.
✔ Automate requests using email templates or CRM tools.
✔ Set up a feedback form on your website.
✔ Make testimonials part of your project closing process.
🔹 Example Process:
📌 Deliver project → 📩 Send feedback request → ✅ Add testimonial to website
💡 Tip: Having a system in place ensures you always collect testimonials.
Final Thoughts: Use Testimonials to Win More Clients
Testimonials build trust, showcase your expertise, and make it easier to attract new freelance clients. By asking at the right time, making the process simple, and using testimonials strategically, you can strengthen your freelance brand and increase your earnings.
🚀 Now, start collecting testimonials and watch your freelance business grow!