When was the last time you updated your rave reviews?
I do, and today I received a wonderful testimonial that I will use to close a few open ended deals. This testimonial is fresh, credible and speaks of the value and benefits of working with me. Some people are still surviving on decade old testimonials, some times people want to see some fresh results, I know I do when it comes to working with someone. What you did for “John Doe” back in 1990 is not as credible for what you have done for “Jane Doe” in 2008 or 2009.
Testimonials are crucial for your business. Make sure that you get your testimonials in written or video format and DISPLAY them. Testimonials are not meant for you to keep in your document file on your computer. Testimonials serve several purposes in a business owners life, and the main purpose is for open opportunities. Prospects will begin to knock down your door when you have the right testimonial advertised.
Here is a tip: Make sure your clients testimonial tells a short story about where or what your client was looking for, or what position your client was in before they started using your product or service, and then make sure it tells the outstanding results they have received based on your product or service.
After obtaining permission to use their testimonial in your marketing efforts, post it everywhere and use it to your advantage to obtain more prospects. Place it in your promotions and marketing material, bottom of your email signature, any place that you can think of, wear it as a name tag at networking events if thats what it takes. 
Testimonials is one of the no-cost, high impact marketing tactics you can use to get ahead.
Here is a recent testimonial that I will be using to solidify other speaking opportunities.
December 21, 2009
To Whom It May Concern:
As the Program Director of the Queens Women’s Business Center, I am always searching
for innovative and inspirational speakers who can provide practical and action?oriented
business development guidance to women entrepreneurs. As a highlight speaker at our
December Power Networking Breakfast, Lucinda Cross exceeded my expectations by giving so
much of herself to the audience and providing them with real world business advice that helped them to refocus their energies towards growing their business in the New Year.
Lucinda’s presentation focused on project management and business goal setting and
provided a clear set of steps that entrepreneurs can take to stay motivated and on top of their
businesses. More impressively, she was able to tailor her presentation to address the diverse
needs and levels the women entrepreneurs at the event, which was not an easy task
considering that the event had nearly 60 participants. She was also able to answer a variety of
questions from how to make sales in today’s slow economy to how to market one’s services as
a diversity training consultant. I receive great feedback about Lucinda and her presentation
from countless participants who described her as “Dynamic and Brilliant,” “Inspiring” and “Truly Helpful and Fun to Watch.”
Additionally, as an event planner, Lucinda was everything that you would want in a
speaker. She was punctual, friendly and approachable. She was patient with all of the
participants, and even stay after the event for almost an hour to give personalized advice to
many of them who were still hunger for more.
I enthusiastically recommend Lucinda for other speaking engagements and hope that
she can provide your organization with the same level of professionalism that she provided the Queens Women’s Business Center.
Warmest Regards,
Johanna Maynard
Queens Women’s Business Center Program Director
