“Asking for Testimonials Early On”

Ummm generally speaking I don't.  However I have some because some folks have asked me and some just left tthem.  I need to improve on this

well Joe you are on to something I have a few referrals and few testimonials vs. you have many so that settles is your way is the right way, Endre

Obviously your process works! I usually ask afterwards.

Great idea!!! In my opinion the best time is when their contract gets accepted!!!

I will always ask in the beginning of a relationship if the opportunity presents itself or during the process, but never at the end. For whatever reason, the end is just too late in my opinion.

Hi Joe -- Rinse. Repeat.  And of course, ask for the referral and/or testimonial. Good job.  

The sooner you can get the testimonial the better.  After the transaction, sometimes people forget or change their mind. 

Hi Joe, 

We all provide services that can be reviewed at various times during the transaction. When a client thanks you for "always answering your phone" that is a time you can say thank you for noticing, and by the way I would appreciate it if you could click on the link in my email to post a review.

Asking for testimonials first I think keeps that information on the mind of the person we are working with. it also keeps us operating on our best behavior (if that needs to be mentioned). 

Joe, your post is timely and coincidental. I'm sending out requests for recent client testimonials this morning.

Joe, that's good advice. I get some pretty nice references at the end, but I've had some of the clients I've extra hard for never followed through on their commitment to send a recommendation. I'll give your idea a try.

I've generally waited until the close f a successful transaction just because I've had deals fall apart at the last minute and that's not exactly a good time to ask for a testimonial. 

As we all know, many buyers discuss their home buying process with friends and family throughout the process.  Having said that, it hasn't occurred to me to ask for referrals at the start, I commonly ask at the closing table. Doing so at the start certainly increases the chance that they will put in a good word for you.

Joe -- I have not thought about getting testimonials your way. Very interesting concept that I need to think about. Thanks for the food for thought.

Always--  since Social Media has been watching !!! Great feature ! I ask and appreciate !

I start asking very early. I am working with one buyer and we haven't gone to contract yet because she is working on her credit. She has referred 3 buyers to me already andI feel more coming.

You are right on target.  Telling them that people hear what they are looking to hear and then mentioning your name is a great suggestion, right at the start!

Joe - if it works for you, it must be worth trying.

Lots of happy clients would gladly give testimonials if they are asked, I think far too often we overlook even asking for them early on or even later.

Joe, since we are serving our clients above expectation, ideally we should ask throughout the process - beginnning, during, end and beyond.  I say leverage our client's referrals throughout the process.  Referrals are vital in today's market because people search for reviews.  I know I do before I make a purchase online or seek a service provider.  I guess I'm taking a broader approach and not just a client testimonial but also seeking my client's referrals for new business. 

Interesting point to consider consider. The client is actively engaged early in the process versus after the closing.