6 Creative Tips for Getting Client Testimonials

Client referrals and recommendations can be invaluable in building business credibility and trust. While a good marketing strategy can help attract potential clients, prospects will likely turn to customer reviews next. Testimonials matter because they offer firsthand experiences with your business.

Testimonials can help strengthen your brand and confirm that you truly deliver on what you promise. Whether you’re a seasoned independent professional or just getting started, it’s never too late to start collecting feedback. Here are six creative ways to get client testimonials.

1. Make It Easy for Your Clients to Submit

A well-organized testimonials page on your website can encourage others to share their experiences. Highlight interesting projects, include detailed feedback, and add links to client sites to help others see your work in action.

Make it even easier by adding a short testimonial form to your site. Include a few guided questions and a blank space for open feedback, then share a direct link so clients can quickly respond without back-and-forth follow-up.

Don’t forget your LinkedIn profile—it’s a great built-in place for reviews. Ask clients for recommendations there, and feature their words in your marketing to boost credibility.

See: 6 Tips for Networking Via LinkedIn As an Independent Contractor

2. Put Client Compliments to Good Use

Sometimes, the best testimonials are already hiding in the compliments clients give you. If someone praises your work in an email, call, or meeting, jot it down and ask permission to share it. Even a simple comment like, “Thanks for the great editing job—I didn’t have to change a thing!” can be powerful.

These authentic, in-the-moment remarks feel genuine and relatable. They give prospects a glimpse of what real client interactions are like, which can make your brand feel more trustworthy and personal.

Capturing informal praise also shows clients that you value their feedback. When they see their words featured, it reinforces your professionalism and strengthens your working relationship.

3. Think Carefully Before You Ask

If asking for a testimonial feels awkward, start with appreciation. Let the client know why their feedback would be particularly valuable—something as simple as, “Your perspective would really help others understand what it’s like to work together.” That personal touch can make all the difference.

Be open about how you plan to use their testimonial, whether it’s for your website, portfolio, or a project proposal. When clients understand the purpose, they’re more likely to take the time to write something thoughtful.

It can also help to tie your request to a recent success. For instance, if they mention how your work improved their productivity or results, use that as a natural segue into asking for their endorsement.

4. Ask for Feedback Right After a Project Is Complete

The best time to ask for feedback is right after you’ve delivered a project. Your client’s experience is fresh, and they’re often most excited about the results. Use this momentum to gather testimonials while enthusiasm is high.

Create a short, simple survey using Google Forms or SurveyMonkey to collect feedback. Ask clear questions about their experience and what stood out most in working with you.

You can then turn their responses into polished testimonials—with permission, of course. It’s a great way to capture honest feedback while also showing clients you care about continuous improvement.

5. Feature Successful Projects Online

Highlighting a project you’re proud of is a great way to attract new business while giving your client some well-deserved recognition. Choose a project that showcases your best work and ask if they’d be open to a short feature.

You could turn it into a blog post, social media story, or a mini case study. If the client is comfortable, invite them to share a testimonial about the collaboration and results.

These stories show prospective clients what working with you looks like from start to finish. Real-world examples backed by client feedback create a compelling picture of your value.

6. Highlight Short Testimonials on Social Media

Short testimonials are ideal for social media—they’re quick to read, easy to share, and feel authentic. Keep an eye out for positive mentions from clients, readers, or peers, and ask permission to repost them.

You can even create a call-to-action hashtag to inspire engagement, like #ThanksJoeSmith or #TeamWithTaylor. It’s a fun, low-pressure way for clients to share their experiences while helping spread the word about your business.

When you receive a testimonial, always thank the client for taking the time. You can lightly edit for grammar or clarity, but keep their voice intact and ask for approval before publishing.

Explore: Ways to Build Strong Relationships With Clients