Struggling to Get Impactful Testimonial Videos? Here’s How to Ask Without Feeling Awkward
Struggling to Get Impactful Client Testimonial Videos? Here’s How to Ask Without Feeling Awkward
Why Testimonial Videos Matter in Springfield, Boston, and Beyond
Testimonial videos are the number one video use case for marketers because it is one of the most powerful forms of social proof. The rising use of testimonial videos showcases growing recognition of their effectiveness. According to data, marketers who used testimonial videos jumped from 39% (2023) to 60% (2024). They can have a significant influence on future customers and boost your conversion rates.
Trust-based marketing is king. Regional word-of-mouth, personal endorsements, and local partnerships are often more effective than national ad campaigns. A video testimonial from a satisfied customer can impact buying decisions whether you are part of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce or a Western Mass business group. These impactful videos show your audience you can deliver results. In fact, testimonials can improve conversions by 34%, according to research.
The Hesitation That Holds You Back
But even with this awareness, you find yourself hesitating. You’re unsure how to initiate the request. Maybe you worry about timing. You might be worried about the possibility of being rejected, or maybe you aren’t sure what you want specifically. And so, the idea remains just that—an idea.
You lack a well-defined system for requesting clients to participate in video testimonials. You are concerned about being seen as pushy, intrusive, or too self-promotional. Ultimately, the reality is that clients’ voices are infinitely more persuasive than anything you can say.
eTown Videos, Your Trusted Guide for Testimonial Video Success
At eTown Videos, we have been creating high-quality testimonial videos for clients throughout Springfield, Boston, and all of New England for nearly 20 years. At the heart of our work are the organizations we serve—local businesses, nonprofits, large brands, and entrepreneurs. We help them capture (and share) real stories from real customers. We’re not just technicians working behind a camera. We’re your local video production partner. We have a lot of experience creating natural, honest, and impactful video testimonials.
Overcoming Fear – Strategies for Testimonial Videos Requests
As uncomfortable as it may seem, requesting a testimonial doesn’t have to be a cringe-worthy affair. Approaching clients with confidence is achievable with a little planning and the right mindset.
5 Proven Strategies to Overcome Nerves and Capture Powerful Video Testimonials
1. Always Ask at the Right Time
Timing is everything. Capture the delight of your clients when they start using your product. A great time to make a request is just after a successful project completion, a major win, or a positive result. At that stage, they have the maximum enthusiasm, and your value is fresh in their mind. For example, you have just completed a successful fundraising campaign for a nonprofit, and the donor is thrilled with the outcome.
That’s a perfect time to say, “We’re very pleased with the campaign’s success, and we’re grateful for your support. Would you be comfortable sharing a few words on video about your experience? We think your story could inspire others.” When you choose your moment wisely, you increase your chances of getting a “yes” from your client.
2. Begin with the Happiest Customers
If you’re nervous, start with the happiest customers who are your biggest fans. Not all customers are a good fit for a video testimonial—focus on those customers who rave about your work or who have been with you for years. People who give positive feedback are more likely to say yes.
For instance, a marketing manager might reach out to a long-term client who has sent referrals in the past. Getting a few enthusiastic testimonials from your biggest fans, you’ll break the ice for yourself. It’s much easier to ask the next client once the first few say “sure I’d love to help”.
3. Make It Easy and Convenient
One of the reasons people are reluctant to give video testimonials is that they think it requires too much time and effort. Make it easy for your client. You (and your video team) will manage all the technical aspects.
For instance, eTown Videos can arrange a quick, stress-free video interview when it’s convenient for the client. We’ll handle the camera, lighting, sound, and editing for you. To help you prepare for the interview, we will also create the interview questions beforehand. The purpose of these questions is not to get scripted responses but to make the on-camera conversation casual and natural.
When you share the testimonial questions in advance, it helps your customer feel more at ease with the process and gives them time to think about what you’d like to cover. When clients are aware of what to expect, they are usually much more open to a video interview.
The interview usually lasts less than one hour (includes a 20-minute interview and capturing some b-roll footage at their place of work). We will help them every step of the way. When you eliminate friction and make it as easy as possible, you dramatically increase their chances of them saying yes!
People are often willing to take part if it benefits them as well . You can remind your client that video will promote their business or mission as well. It’s basically free positive exposure for them. As an example, a business owner that you ask may appreciate that “this video will also highlight the great work you do, it’s a chance for others to hear about your business, too.” Most clients will not refuse a bit of free publicity. Tell them that you want to tell the story of their partnership and success.
5. Keep It Friendly and Low-Pressure
The tone of your request makes a huge difference. Your goal is to be professional and friendly while not being pressuring. It is important to let the customer know that you would appreciate the testimonial but there is no obligation, nor any hard feelings. As an example, in an email or a call you might say, “Would you be open to a short video interview about your experience with us? If it doesn’t fit your schedule or you’re not comfortable, no worries at all – I completely understand!”
By giving specific permission to say no puts both of you in a more relaxed frame of mind. It demonstrates understanding for their time and comfort, which increases the likelihood that they may be open to help. Many people will agree precisely because you weren’t pushy. When approach is laid-back, it protects your relationship with your client; it shows that you value them as a person.
If they agree, thank them warmly right then and there. After the testimonial, send a thank you message or note. Consider a shout-out on social media. When you use these strategies, asking for a testimonial gets much less daunting.
We invite you to start collecting the voices that reflect your impact. Schedule a brief 15-minute consultation with eTown Videos and let’s talk about the best way to approach your top clients for video testimonials—whether you’re based in downtown Springfield, Northampton, Worcester, Boston or anywhere in between.
Don’t Miss Out: Harness the Power of Video Testimonials
Failing to collect testimonials often means missing out on the most powerful form of social proof available. With no social proof, your leads might not be convinced that you are the right choice and go straight to the competition. Don’t wait too long to tell your story. Clients move on, memories fade, and momentum is lost – before you know it, it’s too late.
When fear or doubt gets in the way, you miss real business opportunities. If you don’t do anything, nobody would know you are here, because authentic video testimonials are your loudest advocates.
The Most Powerful Marketing Isn’t What You Say — It’s What Others Say About You
Imagine a rich library of professional, polished video testimonials on your website, in your sales presentations, on social media, and in your funding proposals. These videos speak directly to your future customers. These video testimonials show how your work creates value and solves problems.
Unlike generic claims or vague promises, your future customers hear compelling stories from people just like them. Whether it’s a fellow business owner in East Boston, a nonprofit director in Springfield, MA or a client in Berkshire County, the authenticity of the videos cuts through the marketing noise.
As time goes on, this kind of content makes a more powerful digital footprint, thereby boosting the effectiveness of any marketing activity. People don’t get known for what they do. They get known for what other people say they do.
Final Thoughts for Springfield, Boston, and New England Professionals Considering a Testimonial Video Production Partner
In culture-rich, trust-driven cities like Boston and Springfield and across New England—relationships matter. People want to work with people they trust. And trust is built through transparency, credibility, and social proof. And video marketing is a crucial part of modern marketing. Video testimonials aren’t just a nice-to-have they are a must-have for modern-day marketers.
eTown Videos is dedicated to helping you share the real stories behind your successful partnerships with your clients.
Let’s make it happen, from Boston to Springfield or anywhere in the Northeast.
