How to Get Testimonials That Boost Your Speechwriting Business

Here’s how I approach getting testimonials that really boost my speechwriting business. It’s not just about getting a nice note; it’s about building trust and showing what I can truly do.

When you’re in a field as specific as professional speechwriting, a strong portfolio is a must. But what really sets you apart? It’s that undeniable social proof. Testimonials aren’t just flattering words; they’re incredibly powerful tools that turn potential clients into actual clients. They prove my expertise, build trust from the get-go, and show how I can take someone’s vision and turn it into really impactful words. For me, as a speechwriter, getting these endorsements is a mix of art and science, requiring a proactive plan and careful execution.

I’m going to walk you through my entire process for getting, using, and maximizing the impact of testimonials for my speechwriting work. We’ll go beyond just general advice. I’ll share actionable steps, real examples, and a framework designed for long-term success.

The Power of Proof: Why Testimonials Matter for My Speechwriting

Before we dive into the ‘how,’ it’s super important to understand the ‘why.’ For a speechwriter like me, testimonials do several critical things:

• They Build Instant Credibility: Think about it. Prospective clients are often under pressure to deliver a crucial speech. They need reassurance. A glowing testimonial from a CEO, politician, or a recognized thought leader instantly validates my skills and experience.
• They Show My Versatility and Expertise: Different testimonials can highlight my ability to tackle various speech types – keynotes, eulogies, TED Talks, corporate addresses – and even showcase my knowledge in different industries.
• They Overcome Skepticism and Reduce Perceived Risk: Hiring a speechwriter is an investment. Testimonials ease any worries by showing tangible, positive results that others have already achieved.
• They Provide Social Proof and FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out): When other people endorse me, it signals that I’m in demand and that I get results. This can subconsciously nudge new clients to consider my services.
• They Offer Specificity Beyond Just Samples: While my writing samples show my style, testimonials really get into the impact of my work – improved delivery, standing ovations, clear messaging, increased engagement. They bridge the gap between my writing and the client’s desired outcome.
• They Enhance SEO and Online Visibility: Testimonials, especially when they include relevant keywords related to my services, can actually improve my search engine rankings and bring more organic traffic to my website.

Foundation First: Paving the Way for Testimonials

Look, you can’t just wish testimonials into existence. They’re a natural outcome of providing exceptional service and having a strategic approach. Laying the groundwork is absolutely essential.

I Deliver Exceptional Work, Every Single Time

This is non-negotiable for me. A client who feels truly heard, respected, and whose expectations are exceeded? That’s a perfect candidate for a testimonial.

• I Understand Their Vision Deeply: Before I even write a single word, I spend a lot of time understanding the client’s core message, their target audience, the tone they want, and the ultimate goal of their speech.
• I Maintain Clear Communication: I proactively update clients on my progress, respond quickly to any questions, and manage expectations about timelines and revisions.
• I Exceed Expectations, Not Just Meet Them: I try to deliver drafts ahead of schedule. I might offer a helpful suggestion the client hadn’t even thought of. I provide a polished final product, making sure it’s not just well-written but also perfectly formatted for their delivery.
• I Provide an Excellent Client Experience: I strive to be professional, empathetic, and flexible. I always remember that speechwriting often deals with high-stakes situations, so being a calm, reassuring presence is just as valuable as having a sharp writing pen.

I Identify Key Touchpoints for Testimonial Requests

Timing is everything. Asking for a testimonial too early can feel premature; too late, and that initial excitement or impact might have faded.

• Post-Delivery, Revisions Complete: Once the final version of the speech has been approved and sent to the client, this is a great time. The immediate relief and satisfaction are high.
• Post-Speech Event (Ideal): The absolute best time is after the client has actually delivered the speech and received positive feedback. This allows them to talk not just about my writing process but also about the tangible impact of the speech.
• Strategic Follow-Up: Even if the immediate window passes, a follow-up email a few weeks or even months later, asking about the long-term impact of the speech, can still lead to a valuable testimonial.

I Nurture Relationships Beyond the Project

A strong relationship significantly increases the likelihood of getting a glowing endorsement.

• I Aim to Be a Resource, Not Just a Vendor: I might share relevant articles, offer advice, or connect clients with useful contacts (if it’s appropriate and won’t create a conflict of interest) long after the project is done.
• I Remember Key Anniversaries or Achievements: A quick congratulatory note for a client’s promotion or a business milestone can reinforce my value and keep me top-of-mind.

The Art of the Ask: Crafting My Testimonial Request

How I ask for a testimonial really impacts its quality and whether I even get a response. I don’t leave it to chance.

My Requests Are Direct, Personalized, and Specific

Generic requests get generic results. Personalization is absolutely key for me.

• Email is My Best Bet: While talking in person or over the phone can plant the seed, a written request provides a clear reference point for the client.
• I Reference Specific Successes: I might say, “I was thrilled to hear how well your keynote at the _____ conference was received. Several attendees specifically mentioned the impactful opening and the clarity of your calls to action.” This reminds them of the positive outcome I helped them achieve.
• I Keep It Concise and Clear: I get straight to the point. I respect their time.
• I Offer Guidance, But Don’t Dictate: I don’t tell them exactly what to say, but I offer prompts to make it easier for them to frame their thoughts.

Here’s an example of an email I might send after a successful keynote:

Subject: Quick Question About Your Keynote at [Conference Name]

Hi [Client Name],

I hope this email finds you well.

I was so pleased to hear about the fantastic reception to your keynote at the [Conference Name] last month. [Mention a specific positive outcome or piece of feedback you heard, e.g., “The organizers mentioned it was one of the highest-rated sessions,” or “I saw the buzz on LinkedIn about your powerful insights.”]. It was truly rewarding to see your message resonate so strongly.

As I continue to grow my speechwriting business, authentic feedback from clients like you is incredibly valuable. Would you be willing to provide a brief testimonial about your experience working with me on this speech?

To make it easy, you could consider addressing:

• What specific challenge were you facing before we worked together?
• How did my speechwriting services help you address that challenge?
• What was the most significant benefit or outcome you experienced from the speech?
• What was it like working with me?

A few sentences would be perfectly fine, of course. Please let me know if this is something you might be able to help with.

Thanks again for the opportunity to work with you, and congratulations on such a successful presentation!

Best regards,

[My Name]

I Provide Options for Delivery

I want to make it easy for them to respond in a way that suits them best.

• Written Text: This is the most common and often preferred for formal testimonials.
• Video (If Applicable): For some clients, especially those comfortable on camera, a short video testimonial can be incredibly powerful and authentic. I might offer to send a few prompt questions or even set up a brief call for a recorded interview.
• LinkedIn Recommendation: Often overlooked, a LinkedIn recommendation is public, visible to their network, and provides immediate credibility. I might suggest this as an alternative or an addition.

Overcoming Common Objections

• “I’m too busy.” I acknowledge their time is valuable. I might offer to draft something for their review and approval (more on this in a bit).
• “I don’t know what to say.” I provide the specific prompts I outlined in the example email.
• “Can I just give you a star rating?” I gently explain that while appreciated, a few sentences highlighting specific benefits are far more impactful for my business.

Maximizing Impact: Optimizing and Leveraging Testimonials

Once I have those invaluable words, I don’t let them just sit there. Strategically using them amplifies their power.

I Curate and Categorize My Testimonials

Raw testimonials are great, but organizing them makes them much more accessible and effective.

• By Industry: “Healthcare Executive,” “Tech Startup Founder,” “Political Candidate.”
• By Speech Type: “Keynote Address,” “Corporate Training,” “Memorial Eulogy.”
• By Challenge Solved: “Helped me articulate a complex vision,” “Transformed my nervous delivery into confident engagement.”

I Extract Key Phrases and “Sound Bites”

Not every testimonial needs to be displayed in its entirety. I pull out the most potent sentences or phrases.

• Example Original: “Working with [My Name] was a game-changer. I was struggling to condense months of research into a 20-minute presentation, and they helped me craft a clear, concise, and incredibly engaging speech that got a standing ovation. Their understanding of my industry was remarkable.”
• Key Sound Bite: “Helped me craft a clear, concise, and incredibly engaging speech that got a standing ovation.” and “Their understanding of my industry was remarkable.”

I Display Them Prominently and Strategically

Visibility is crucial for impact.

• Dedicated Testimonial Page: A standalone page on my website is standard practice.
• Homepage Integration: I feature my strongest testimonials above the fold on my homepage.
• Service Pages: I include relevant testimonials on specific service pages (e.g., a “TED Talk Coaching” page would feature testimonials from past TED Talk clients).
• Case Studies: I weave testimonials into detailed case studies where I outline the problem, my solution, and the results.
• Marketing Materials: I incorporate excerpts into my brochures, sales proposals, email signatures, and presentation decks.
• Social Media: I create visually appealing graphics with testimonial quotes to share on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. I tag the client if they’re comfortable and it’s appropriate.
• Email Nurture Sequences: I include a powerful testimonial in a follow-up email after a prospect downloads a lead magnet.

I Include Attribution and Context

Authenticity is key.

• Full Name and Title: I always include the client’s full name and title (e.g., “Jane Doe, CEO, Acme Corp.”). This adds immense credibility.
• Company Name: If applicable and approved, I include the company name.
• Headshot (with Permission): A professional headshot adds a human element and significantly boosts credibility. I always ask for explicit permission before using a client’s photo.

The “Draft & Approve” Method: A High-Yield Strategy

This proactive approach can significantly increase my testimonial acquisition rate and the quality of the content.

• The Scenario: A client praises my work verbally or in an email, but doesn’t offer a formal testimonial.
• My Response: “Thank you so much, [Client Name], I’m genuinely thrilled to hear that! Would you mind if I drafted a few sentences based on your feedback, which you could then review and approve, or modify as you see fit? It would be incredibly helpful for my business.”
• Why It Works:
  • It Removes the Burden of Creation: Many clients want to help but lack the time or inclination to craft eloquent prose.
  • It Ensures Relevancy: I can draft a testimonial that specifically highlights the benefits I want to showcase.
  • It Increases Completion Rate: It makes it a simple “yes/no” or “edit & approve” task rather than a creative writing assignment.
• Drafting Tips:
  • I keep it concise (2-4 sentences).
  • I focus on a specific problem I solved or a clear benefit.
  • I use language they might use, keeping it authentic.
  • I don’t over-exaggerate; I remain truthful.

Example Draft for Client Review:

[Client Name], I was so grateful for your kind words about the sales presentation. Would something like this work as a testimonial for my website? Feel free to edit anything.

“Before working with [My Name], our sales team struggled to articulate our solution’s core value proposition succinctly. [My Name] helped us craft a powerful and clear message that resonated deeply with our prospects, immediately improving our close rates. Their ability to distill complex information into compelling narratives is exceptional, and I highly recommend their speechwriting services.”

Leveraging Testimonials for Continuous Growth

Testimonials aren’t a one-and-done asset for me. They’re an ongoing engine for business development.

I Integrate Them into My Sales Process

• Discovery Calls: When discussing a prospect’s challenges, I mention how I’ve helped similar clients overcome those exact obstacles, then refer to a specific testimonial. “Many of my clients, like [Testimonial Name], initially struggle with articulating their key differentiators. [Testimonial Name] found that my process helped them clearly state [specific benefit mentioned in testimonial].”
• Proposals: I include a relevant testimonial in my proposals. If I’m pitching a corporate keynote, I feature a testimonial from a previous corporate keynote client.
• Follow-Up: If a prospect is on the fence, I might send them a specific testimonial that addresses their lingering concerns.

I Use Them for Content Creation

• “Client Spotlight” Blog Posts: I might expand on a strong testimonial by creating a longer blog post or case study that delves into the client’s challenge and my solution, incorporating their testimonial as a core component.
• Video Content: I might read compelling testimonials aloud in short video clips to add a personal touch.
• Webinars/Workshops: I share relevant testimonials during my presentations to reinforce my expertise.

I Continuously Refresh My Collection

• Quality Over Quantity: While a large collection is good, fresh, highly relevant testimonials are better.
• I Vary My Sources: I aim for testimonials from different industries, company sizes, and speech contexts to showcase my breadth.
• Proactive Pursuit: I make testimonial acquisition a regular part of my post-project workflow, not just an afterthought.

Ethical Considerations and Best Practices

Maintaining integrity is paramount for me.

• Transparency: I always disclose if a testimonial has been edited for length or clarity (though this is rare if I use the ‘draft and approve’ method).
• Permission is Non-Negotiable: I never publish a testimonial without explicit written permission from the client, especially if I’m using their photo, full name, or company name.
• No Fabricated Testimonials: This is a cardinal sin. It damages trust and reputation irreversibly.
• I Respect Client Privacy: If a client requests anonymity or prefers to only use their first name and industry, I respect that. Even a partial testimonial is better than none.
• I Review and Update: I periodically review my testimonials. I remove outdated ones or those that no longer accurately reflect my current services or target audience.

My Speechwriter’s Toolkit: Testimonial Management

I streamline my process to ensure consistent acquisition and utilization.

I Create a Testimonial Workflow

• Step 1: Project Completion & Final Delivery: Check.
• Step 2: Post-Speech Debrief (Optional but Recommended): A quick call to gauge satisfaction.
• Step 3: Send Testimonial Request Email: Within 1-2 days of final delivery or post-speech.
• Step 4: Follow-up (Politely): If no response in 5-7 business days.
• Step 5: Receive & Draft (if necessary): For client approval.
• Step 6: Secure Permission: Explicit written consent for usage.
• Step 7: Store & Categorize: I dedicate a folder on my drive/cloud.
• Step 8: Implement: I place them on my website, in marketing materials, etc.

I Utilize CRM Tools or Simple Spreadsheets

I keep track of who I’ve asked, who responded, and where the testimonials are currently published.

• Client Name:
• Project Name:
• Date Request Sent:
• Date Testimonial Received:
• Content of Testimonial:
• Permission Status (Full Name/Company/Photo):
• Location Published (Website Home, Testimonial Page, LinkedIn, etc.):
• Notes: (e.g., “Drafted by me, approved by client,” “Video testimonial received”)

Conclusion

For me, as a speechwriter, testimonials are more than just a nice-to-have; they are fundamental building blocks for a thriving business. They are the authentic voice of my satisfied clients, echoing my competence, my reliability, and the transformative impact I can have. By consistently delivering exceptional work, proactively and professionally requesting feedback, and strategically leveraging every piece of social proof, I don’t just get testimonials—I cultivate a powerful ecosystem of validation that fuels trust, attracts premium clients, and ultimately, elevates my speechwriting business to new heights.