Top 5 Ways to Ask for a Testimonial (Without Being Awkward)

Introduction

We all know we need testimonials. But asking for them feels... needy.

"Hey, um, did you like my work? Can you write about it?"

It's awkward. So we don't ask. And our portfolio stays empty.

The trick is to ask at the right time, with the right script.

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Timing Is Everything

The best time to ask is immediately after a win.

• When you deliver the final files.
• When they email you saying "This looks amazing!"
• When the project launches.

Do not wait 3 months. The emotional high is gone.

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Method 1: The Mid-Project Win

When they send a compliment via email: You: "Thank you! I'm really glad you like it. Would you mind if I used that exact quote on my website?"

It's low friction. They already wrote it.

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Method 2: The Wrap-Up Email

Script: "It's been a pleasure working on this. I'm updating my portfolio and would love to include a blurb about our work together. If you have 2 minutes, a quick sentence about the [Specific Result] would mean the world to me."

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Method 3: The LinkedIn Swap

Script: "I just wrote you a recommendation on LinkedIn because I really enjoyed our collaboration. If you feel inclined to reciprocate, I'd appreciate it, but no pressure!"

Reciprocity is a powerful psychological trigger.

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Method 4: The Draft Assist

Clients are busy. Writing is hard. Script: "I know you're super busy. To make it easy, I drafted a quick testimonial based on our results. Feel free to edit it or just copy/paste it if it looks good!"

Draft: "Mike helped us launch our site in record time and increased our leads by 20%."

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Method 5: The Video Ask

For high-ticket clients, ask for a 30-second Loom/Zoom recording. Script: "I'm building a video reel. Would you be open to hopping on a 5-minute call just to share your thoughts on the project? I'll record it so you don't have to write anything."

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Conclusion

If you don't ask, the answer is always no. Make it easy. Make it timely. And watch your social proof grow.