Getting Jedi-Knight Testimonials
What to Look at When Writing Powerful Testimonials
Most Testimonials Are Forgettable
They lack depth, sound generic, and fail to make an impact. A strong testimonial should captivate the reader, build credibility, and make a real difference to the person being endorsed.
Words Have Power
A well-written testimonial can be the difference between someone trusting a service or moving on. A generic statement like “They did a great job!” won’t cut it.
You need to create something that carries weight, builds authority, and leaves no doubt in the reader’s mind that this person is exceptional.
If You Want To Write Testimonials That Truly Stand Out, These 10 Tips Will Show You How
Tip 1: Start with a Bold Hook
The First Sentence Needs To Grab Attention
If your opening line doesn’t make someone want to keep reading, they won’t.
Instead of saying, “John is a great business consultant,” try something like, “John Smith is the sharpest business mind in Australia.”
A Big Claim Sets The Stage For The Rest Of Your Testimonial
People are bombarded with information online, so your testimonial needs to stand out. If it starts bland, no one will pay attention.
Think about what makes this person different. What’s the most striking thing about them? What makes them irreplaceable? Start there.
Tip 2: Provide Proof to Back Up Your Claim
Be Real With Your Experience
Share real reasons why the person is outstanding. If they’ve built successful businesses, transformed companies, or changed lives, explain how and why that matters.
For example, if someone says, “Emma is the best financial planner,” that’s meaningless on its own.
But if you say, “Emma has helped over 200 families get out of debt and build wealth for the future,” now that’s something people will believe.
Tip 3: Tell a Personal Story
A Great Testimonial Isn’t Just A List Of Compliments – It’s A Story
Think about how this person helped you or others. Did they solve a massive problem? Did they teach you something that changed how you work?
Adding a personal experience makes your endorsement more relatable and believable.
Stories Make People Feel Something
Emotions can sometimes drive decisions. If you’re writing about a fantastic mentor, don’t just say they gave great advice – share a time when their words changed the course of your career.
That’s what people remember.
Tip 4: Be Specific About Their Strengths
Vague Testimonials Do Nothing
Saying, “Sarah is amazing at marketing,” doesn’t mean much. Instead, clarify exactly what makes her great: “Sarah has helped over 200 businesses triple their sales through targeted marketing strategies.”
Specificity Makes An Endorsement More Powerful
Imagine you’re choosing a doctor. Would you trust a review that just says, “Dr. Smith is great”?
Or would you rather read, “Dr. Smith diagnosed my condition when three other doctors couldn’t, and within a month, my health improved dramatically”?
Details can help build credibility.
Tip 5: Keep It Honest
Not Every Professional Is A Perfect Fit For Every Situation
Instead of pretending they are, be upfront. If someone is brilliant at scaling large businesses but not suited for startups, say so.
A Touch Of Honesty Makes The Testimonial More Credible
Think of it this way: If a restaurant review says, “This place is perfect for every occasion,” you might be skeptical.
But if it says, “Best for casual lunches, but not ideal for romantic dinners,” that honesty makes you trust the reviewer more.
Tip 6: Make It About Them, Not Just You
A strong endorsement benefits the person you’re endorsing, but it also reflects on you. If you vouch for someone, people will naturally wonder who you are.
Make sure your testimonial supports their credibility while also subtly reinforcing your own authority.
For example, “I’ve worked with dozens of business coaches, and Mark stands out because…” This not only praises Mark but also shows that you have experience in this field.
Tip 7: Avoid Generic Phrases
Instead of “Lisa is a fantastic teacher,” say, “Lisa helped my daughter go from failing maths to topping her class in just one semester.”
That’s the kind of detail that makes people pay attention.
Tip 8: Highlight Their Unique Value
What makes this person stand out? Do they have a rare skill? Do they see problems in ways others don’t? Pinpoint their unique edge.
Maybe they have an uncanny ability to predict industry trends or a way of explaining things that makes the complex feel simple. Whatever it is, highlight it.
Tip 9: Keep It Concise and Readable
People won’t read a testimonial that feels like an essay. Keep sentences punchy, avoid fluff, and make sure every line adds value.
The best testimonials are short, strong, and straight to the point. Think of your testimonial like a highlight reel. Cut out the filler and keep only the best moments.
Tip 10: End with a Call to Action
A Testimonial Isn’t Just About Praise – It Should Inspire Action
End by encouraging others to work with this person. Say something like, “If you need an NDIS business expert, Tanya is the best person to call.”
A Clear Call To Action Makes Your Endorsement Even Stronger
Another example: “Looking for a photographer who captures magic? Hire Ben today—you won’t regret it.” That final push helps drive real engagement.
Some Things Michael Suggests Avoiding
Writing A Compelling Testimonial Takes More Than Just Good Intentions
Here are a few common mistakes people make and how to avoid them:
Being Too Vague – If your testimonial could apply to anyone, it’s not strng enough. Add details and specific examples.
- Focusing Only on Personality – While being ‘kind’ or ‘passionate’ is nice, testimonials should highlight actual skills and results.
- Making It Too Long – A testimonial should be impactful but not a novel. Get to the point quickly.
- Forgetting a Call to Action – The best testimonials don’t just praise; they encourage others to act.
Testimonials Can Be For Any Service
Testimonials don’t just apply to businesses. If you’re endorsing a teacher, a support worker, or a coach, the same rules apply.
Be specific about how they’ve helped your child, share personal stories, and keep it honest.
Instead of saying, “Best tutor ever,” try, “Since working with Emma, my son’s reading has improved by two grade levels in just six months.”
Let Michael Help You Write a Testimonial That Matters
Hope this is helpful for you.
If you love it, go and find someone you love and give them an endorsement.