Did you know that testimonials can increase conversion rates by 34% and can generate over 60% more revenue? In fact, many people refuse to purchase an item or service without reading positive reviews and testimonials.

If you haven’t considered the importance of adding testimonials to your website, you’re missing out on a fantastic opportunity to grow and retain your customer base. 

Unfortunately, those glowing testimonials will seldom come to you without a little encouragement. Read on for tips and tricks to get the testimonials you need to drive your business forward.

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If you are running your own business, you certainly have plenty on your plate each day. It never seems as if there are enough hours to get everything done, no matter how focused you are when you sit down at your desk. In order to reach your goals, the only viable option is to look for help.

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Receiving a testimonial from a client is a great way to get social/visible proof from your clients/customers in order to build trust with your prospects. Many often ask, “how can I get client testimonials?”.

We’re glad you asked! Here are some points to consider in order to improve the quality and quantity of client testimonials you receive for your business.

Client Testimonials Build Social Proof

Ask yourself how many times you have researched feedback on a company before purchasing a product or service from them. We’ve all done it, right? The third party feedback you seek acts as a level of “social proof” or validation of the business.

Collecting Testimonials from Clients

When you collect testimonials, don’t just get a few sentences and be satisfied with that. Include the full name of the customer, along with location, title, and pictures (wherever possible). This enhances the credibility of the review.

What Makes a Great Testimonial?

The best reviews have a clear understanding of what the situation was before and how it has improved (after) – in easily understood and measurable terms.

So, what are some quick and easy tips to actually get a customer/client to provide a review? Try asking them these questions:

What was the problem they were experiencing before they hired you?
What did they find as a result of your product or service?
What was the best thing about it?
Had they previously tried another company to solve their issue? If so, who/what?
What are three main benefits that they have experienced as a result of working with you?
Would they recommend you to someone else – and if so, why?
Are there any other final remarks they would like to add?

Believe it or not, but testimonials and reviews are one of the most important factors users consider when choosing a business. Your rating is also one of the first things users see when searching for your business. These guidelines should help you with the quality and quantity of your testimonials – so get out there and get to it!

Knowing when to hire a marketing agency can lead to sustained growth if you time it right.

When small businesses start, it’s quite common for the owners to want to keep as many tasks “internal” as possible. Sometimes it is out of personal preference, while other times it comes down to cost/necessity. As the business grows, however, more help is needed as customers and relationships begin to increase.

This is especially true when it comes to hiring a marketing agency. While many efforts are often done in-house to save costs, there does come a point where it just makes sense to hire an outside marketing firm. Here are some of the telltale signs to look out for.

1) It Just Isn’t Getting Done

As a business owner, prioritizing tasks is a must. Unfortunately, marketing efforts are often the first to be sacrificed. Hiring a marketing agency cannot only take these tasks off your plate, but it can also make them a top priority!

2) Slow or Stagnant Sales

Oftentimes, ad agencies will offer a free (brief) consultation. If you know the pieces are in place but sales are still not what you want them to be, why not at least talk to someone about it? After speaking, you should come away with a much better feel for how your lack of marketing is holding you back!

3) You Just Don’t Enjoy Marketing

Marketing professionals exist for a reason. Blog posts, landing pages and emails are not the most exciting tasks ever – but they are important and must be done right. Let an agency bring in their passion for marketing so it compliments the passion you have for your business.

4) You Need More Skills

Just because you’re a business owner doesn’t mean you have to be an expert at marketing. Most aren’t! An experienced marketing agency will take the time to get to know you and your business and then apply their skills to your benefit.

5) Questionable Marketing Results

If your marketing results have been hit or miss, It’s quite easy to come to the conclusion that inbound marketing doesn’t work for your business if marketing results are hit or miss. With a fresh set of eyes and a new perspective, a marketing agency will put together an ongoing strategy to overcome your challenges and meet your goals.

6) Budget Concerns

Many times, decisions come down to money. After all, it’s business! But did you know that when you hire a marketing agency, you can often get the benefits of experienced, skilled professionals in a variety of areas – for about the cost of one employee?

Remember, you won’t know what’s out there until you look! Don’t be afraid to talk to different agencies to see how they can help your business. You might be surprised at what they can offer – and at a good rate!

In the web offset printing process, colors are mainly replicated one of two ways; Pantone Matching System (PMS) or process color. When you are in the process of creating a print campaign, understanding the differences are critical to ensure the best quality.

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