When should I ask a client for a testimonial?

Ask right after you deliver a clear result or when the client thanks you, while the project is fresh. For results that take time to show, ask again a few months later with a short check-in.

How do I make it easy for a busy client to say yes?

Keep the ask short, give them two or three simple questions, or send a draft quote based on what they already told you and ask them to approve or edit it. Always say it's optional.

Can I write the testimonial for the client?

You can draft it from their own words, but only publish it after they approve the final text. Ask how they want to be named, for example full name and company or first name only.

How many times should I follow up on a testimonial request?

One polite reminder about a week later is usually enough. If there's still no reply, let it go and keep the relationship warm. You can ask again at a natural moment later on.

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Testimonial request email templates for freelancers

A few honest words from a happy client make your next proposal much easier to win. Use these five emails to ask at the right moment, make it a two-minute job for the client and follow up without being pushy.

1. Right after you deliver a good result

Subject: Would you share a few words about [project]?

Hi [Name],

I'm really glad [result, e.g. the new booking page is live and enquiries are coming in].

Would you be willing to write two or three sentences about working with me? I'd like to add it to my website. It could cover what you needed, what it was like working together, and how it turned out.

No rush, and no pressure if now isn't a good time.

Thanks,
[Your name]

2. Make it easy with three short questions

Subject: Three quick questions (2 minutes)

Hi [Name],

I'm collecting short testimonials from clients. If you have two minutes, could you answer these in a line or two each?

1. What did you need help with before we started?
2. What was it like working together?
3. What changed after the project?

I'll turn your answers into a short quote and send it back for your OK before I use it anywhere.

Thank you!
[Your name]

3. Send a draft for them to approve

Subject: A short quote for your OK

Hi [Name],

You mentioned you were happy with [project]. To save you time, I drafted a short testimonial based on what you said:

"[Draft quote in their words, e.g. Sam rebuilt our checkout in two weeks and our abandoned carts dropped noticeably. Clear updates the whole way through.]"

Feel free to change anything, or tell me if you'd rather not. I'll only use it with your approval, and I can show your name and company or just your first name.

[Your name]

4. Past client, a while after the project

Subject: How is [project] working out?

Hi [Name],

It's been [a few months] since we finished [project]. I hope it's still working well for you.

I'm updating my website and would love to include a sentence or two from you about the results you've seen since then. Totally optional.

Thanks either way,
[Your name]

5. Gentle reminder and thank-you

Subject: Re: Would you share a few words about [project]?

Hi [Name],

Just a gentle nudge on the testimonial request below, in case it got buried. Even one sentence would help a lot.

If you've already sent it or would rather not, please ignore this. Thanks again for being a great client.

[Your name]

Tips for getting more testimonials

Ask within a week of a good result, while the project is fresh.
Ask for specifics: the problem before, what working together was like and the result after.
Offer to draft it from their words, and publish only the version they approve.
Put the best quote next to your pricing or proposal, where new clients decide.
A happy client is also your best referral source. Our referral request templates, follow-up email templates and cold email templates help with the next message.

Never lose track of a follow-up

SteadyPipe keeps every client's next step and follow-up date in one place and reminds you each week who needs a nudge. Free for up to 5 open leads.

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FAQ

When should I ask a client for a testimonial?: Ask right after you deliver a clear result or when the client thanks you, while the project is fresh. For results that take time to show, ask again a few months later with a short check-in.
How do I make it easy for a busy client to say yes?: Keep the ask short, give them two or three simple questions, or send a draft quote based on what they already told you and ask them to approve or edit it. Always say it's optional.
Can I write the testimonial for the client?: You can draft it from their own words, but only publish it after they approve the final text. Ask how they want to be named, for example full name and company or first name only.
How many times should I follow up on a testimonial request?: One polite reminder about a week later is usually enough. If there's still no reply, let it go and keep the relationship warm. You can ask again at a natural moment later on.