How to Use Testimonials in Your Marketing (Without Feeling Awkward)
Social proof is everything! But asking for testimonials or figuring out how to use them without sounding braggy? That’s where most people freeze up.
Here’s the truth: people trust people. Reviews and testimonials can be one of your strongest marketing tools, and they don’t have to feel salesy or weird. In this post, I’ll show you how to ask for testimonials naturally and how to actually use them across your marketing like a pro.
In Today’s Article:
Why testimonials are so powerful (and underused)
Easy ways to ask for them without the awkwardness
Where to use them (online and offline)
One mistake that makes testimonials fall flat
1. Why Testimonials Work
People want proof. Before they book with you, they want to know someone else already has and had a good experience.
A strong testimonial builds trust, removes doubt, and lets potential clients picture themselves in the same “happy customer” moment. It’s less about you and more about what others are saying about you.
2. How to Ask Without It Feeling Weird
Option 1: Ask after a great experience.
“Hey! If you’re happy with everything, would you mind leaving a short review I can share with others? I’d be so grateful.”
Option 2: Make it part of your offboarding process.
Add a review request into your wrap-up email or final invoice. Keep it casual and easy.
Option 3: Give them a prompt.
Sometimes people want to write a review but don’t know what to say. Help them out:
“What was your favorite part of working with me?”
“What made you choose me over someone else?”
“How did you feel before vs. after we worked together?”
3. Where to Use Testimonials
Website
Feature a few on your homepage
Create a full testimonials page
Drop them into your About or Services pages as trust builders
Social Media
Turn short reviews into graphic quotes
Screenshot longer ones from Google or emails
Create a “Client Love” highlight or story series
Email Newsletters
Add a testimonial under your call-to-action
Use it as the story intro to a case study-style email
Printed Materials
Use 1–2 strong lines on a flyer, brochure, or postcard
Include them on event signage or booth displays
4. Mistake to Avoid
Don’t use vague or generic reviews. “Great service!” is nice, but it’s not compelling. Look for testimonials that talk about the transformation: what changed or improved because they worked with you.
Try It This Week
Pick one past client and reach out. Just one. Ask for a quick testimonial using one of the prompts above. Then turn it into a post, add it to your site, or drop it into your next newsletter. You’ll be surprised how powerful a single happy review can be.
Need help designing a testimonial template or figuring out how to share them beautifully? I’ve got you, just say the word.