How to Ask for a Testimonial

And not feel icky

You’ve worked your heart out this year—solved problems, juggled emotions, negotiated deals, and kept your cool (even when your clients didn’t).
And they’ve told you:

“You were amazing.”
“I couldn’t have done this without you.”
“You made this so much easier than I expected.”

But here’s the thing: if that love stays stuck in their text messages or thank-you cards… no one else sees it.

So let’s change that.

🛠 Here’s how to ask for a testimonial, without making it awkward or salesy:

Use Timing to Your Advantage

The best time to ask? When the emotions are still fresh.
Right after closing, after they get the keys, or after you’ve solved a tough problem.

Send a quick note like:

“It meant so much to be part of your journey. If you’d be open to sharing a few words about your experience, I’d be so grateful. It really helps people who are still trying to figure out who to trust.”
Keep it warm, not corporate.

Make It Easy to Say Yes

Give them options:

Send a link to your Google Business page or Zillow profile
Offer to take their message from a text or email and polish it up for them
Ask a simple, clear question like:
“What was your favorite part of working together?” or
“What surprised you about this process?”

People want to say yes, you just need to lower the barrier.

Reframe It as a Compliment That Keeps on Giving

Let them know that their words don’t just help you—they help others.
“Most of my clients find me through referrals and reviews. Your story might be the one that makes someone feel safe enough to take the next step.”

Circle Back to Past Clients Too

Did someone rave to you six months ago but never wrote a review? It’s not too late.
Just say:
“I keep thinking about what you said when we closed… would you be open to me turning that into a quick testimonial?”

People love being reminded that they made your day.

Bonus Tip: Save Every Word

Even if it’s “just a text” or a voicemail, screenshot it. Save it.
That’s marketing gold—and you can absolutely repurpose it with a first name or initials.

The Real Win?

You’re not asking for praise, you’re capturing proof.
Proof that you show up. Proof that you deliver. Proof that your work matters.

You deserve to be seen for what you’ve already done.

And that next amazing client? They’re probably reading your reviews right now.

Sandy, you've done an amazing job getting me "plugged in." I will certainly be recommending you!

Sandy at Bild a Better Business continues to amaze me with her expertise and generousity!

“Sandy Bild is the most efficient and effective assistant I have had the pleasure to work with. She is ALWAYS on time with assignments and is very proficient with her work. She is able to mutli-task and keep work-load running smoothly. One of the things I found most helpful with Sandy is that she keeps on top of my busy schedule and keeps me organized. She is self-sufficient and a self-starter. The experience she brings to the field is invaluable.”

“In the past 3 ½ years Sandy has worked with me, it feels no longer like it’s my business but it’s ours. Together we work perfectly as a team. I know my strengths and I certainly appreciate hers. Sandy has been able to take down my creative ideas and put them on paper to create what I believe to be an outstanding reflection of my business. She has given me the ability to focus on what I do best, sell real estate! Instead of me using my precious time working on the details of advertising, blog posts, researching the proper materials for keeping my clients informed, I count on Sandy for that task! Having someone who “gets it” and then put it into text and production is essential and she does that!”

More Articles ...

Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice

If you’re feeling the fall slowdown creeping in, you’re not alone. This time of year can bring a dip in momentum—but it’s also the perfect moment to lean into connection.

And what better way than a simple, seasonal pop-by?

Image of a Calendar flipping pages captioning Breath there's time.

Seize Your Moment Now!

While you can certainly try to generate leads on your own, it’s important to consider the potential time and energy you might spend on trial and error. By enlisting the help of a professional copywriter, you can benefit from their expertise in writing and designing compelling content that resonates with your audience, ultimately saving you time, energy, and aggravation and getting the results you want.

Image for Pumpkin Patch or Fall Guide for Clients

Click to Download your 12 Ways to Give

Visiting a local Pumpkin Patch is always a fun and festive experience, perfect for connecting with the community during the fall season. Why not take it a step further by sharing the love with a custom, downloadable PDF that highlights the best local pumpkin patches?