3 Simple Tactics to Collect Testimonials

You’ve got a much better shot at getting fantastic, in-the-moment testimonials and reviews if you ask for them on the spot rather than letting your fans walk out the door.

1 Get it online
It takes a bit of effort for someone to log on to Yelp or Amazon to leave a review, and the longer it’s been since they’ve bought from you or been in your store, the less likely it is they’ll take the time to do it. Instead of asking for the review when they get home, try setting up a computer terminal that encourages customers to post an online review right from your store. If you can get the review right at the moment they’ve seen your best stuff, you’ve got a great shot at getting some awesome online word of mouth.

2. Get it in writing
Have a simple way for customers to leave an old-fashioned, hand-written testimonial before they walk out the door. Develop a simple card that your customers can fill out on the spot. Asking for a quick, handwritten note from your fans is a simple way to get instant testimonials that you can use on your website, direct mailers or brochures… or even a customer “Brag Book”.
 
3. Get it on video
Few things are as effective and authentic as an in-the-moment video review from one of your customers. Businesses like restaurants, bars, concert venues, and small shops could set up a little booth for customers to leave a video review that could later be posted on your website and shared in your newsletters — as could service companies apply this technique by giving their repair and installation crews a camera to gather feedback when they’re out in the field. And though not everyone will be up for being on tape, why not have the option available for your most enthusiastic fans?