If you are a business owner, then you know that keeping a good reputation with your customers and community is a vital part of running a successful business. One of the best inexpensive ways to keep your reputation sparkling is by using testimonials.
The most accurate way to explain the potential of a testimonial is through the idea of “social proof.”
What is Social Proof?
Social proof is a simple concept: people tend to believe what others think about something. For business owner, this means customers will be more likely to come to your business if previous customers recommend you to them.
How can I use Testimonials for my Business?
The implications of such a recommendation can be astronomical. This is because a testimonial can be placed in all portions of your marketing efforts like your website, online listings, blogs, and brochures. With good testimonials, you will be able to market your business, strengthen your branding, build credibility, and strengthen your reputation, all by taking advantage of social proof!
How do I get Good Reviews & Testimonials?
There are several ways to get quality testimonials. One way is to use your social media pages like Facebook and Twitter. Social networking sites revolve around the idea of people sharing their thoughts and ideas to people they trust. Why not take advantage of it with your business’ pages? Another beneficial way of obtaining testimonials is asking for them in your place of business! Simply ask your customers if they are willing to leave a review, and make it easy for them. You can hand out tangibles such as a survey on your receipt or a flier on your main counter.
Note: Before you use any testimonial for your marketing efforts, it is important to make sure you have permission to use the testimonials from the person that wrote it.
How have you been getting testimonials for your business? Would you like to get more? Contact AMG today for a free assessment of your integrated marketing plan!
Originally published April 11, 2013. Updated April 26, 2017.
