WWL Newsetter #002
Hey freelancers!
Can you believe we’re wrapping up the third quarter? 2023 is definitely flying by. Summer is wrapping up and we’ll all be sipping pumpkin spice lattes in a few short weeks.
But aside from the seasonal shift, the end of Q3 is the perfect time to refresh your client testimonials.
You have those, right? And you publish them? 🙃
Testimonials are so important in giving potential new clients social proof that you’re a legitimate writer with happy, paying customers.
They can be used on your website, freelancing platform profile (like Upwork and Fiverr), and social media profiles (and posts, for that matter!).
For me personally, LinkedIn is my go-to place for working with clients, so I have a set of verified recommendations directly on my profile page. Anytime a lead checks out my profile, they see other people who have invested time and money in my services and were happy with the finished product.
In fact, that’s what triggered this newsletter topic — I realized my most recent set of testimonials were from 2019!
✅ So following up with last quarter’s clients is on my to-do list this week.
What do I actually say when I ask for a testimonial?
Another freelancer recently asked me this question in my DMs this week. After all, it can be nerve-wracking to open yourself up to criticsim.
But in the past, I have found that people are more than happy to support you in your business and offer kind words. You just have to ask!
Here’s how I do it.
I try to keep things as casual as possible when requesting favors from my clients. And I also make a point to note that they are part of a larger group of people I’m requesting this information from.
That way it doesn’t feel like there’s a ton of pressure on them to respond if they’re swamped with work.
Try some of these scripts out with your most satisfied clients this week. Not only will it help your future business, but it’ll make you feel great about the impact you’re making with your work.
👇TESTIMONIAL REQUEST SWIPE FILES👇
Example for Testimonial via Email:
Hi [Client],
I’m reaching out to all of my clients this quarter for quick testimonials about my writing services and I’d love to include you! Feel free to respond directly or I can send you some easy questions to help get the ball rolling. Even a quick quote would be much appreciated!
Thank you,
[Your name]
Example for Recommendation via LinkedIn:
Hi [Client],
Would you mind writing me a recommendation here on LinkedIn when you have a quick moment? Thank you in advance!
Best,
[Your name]
Note: You can send a recommendation request directly through LinkedIn and add a personalized message.
Overall, asking for testimonials is a pretty easy process. And unlike sending pitches, you don’t need a ton of customization for each request.
I’ll check back in next week and let you know how my outreach with my own clients goes and I’d love to hear if you give this strategy a try as well. Hit reply and let me know!
Until next week — happy freelancing!
Lauren
PS: Wondering how I get great quality clients without regularly using platforms like Upwork or Fiverr? Get my best strategies in my ebook, The Fully Booked Freelance Writer (it’s a steal at $12!).