Are Testimonials Really Important?

Yes! Yes! Yes!

I can end the blog here, but I'll explain further.

This applies to all businesses, not just Virtual Assistants.

It used to be when we left a job we would collect letters of reference to have on file for future employment. But like everything else these days, it's changed. Letters of reference can still be important, but testimonials are crucial to catch people's eye.

The truth is, I thought this was a given until I spoke to a client last week. She was talking about her website and asked me if I thought it was important to get testimonials. I was surprised it was a question. So I thought this may help others to start reaching out to current or former clients and employers to make a beautiful portfolio of testimonials.

What do we do with testimonials once we have them?

Great question!

I use LinkedIn, and I think it's a great place to add testimonials. If someone is surfing online for a Virtual Assistant and come across my LI page, they can instantly see that I have consistent work and what my clients have to say about me.

I also added testimonials on my website. I always send my website to potential clients and it's great they can see at a glance what my strengths are based on what others say about me.

Lastly, testimonials can be added to a resume. Like an 'old school' LinkedIn page, a resume is a place to see your work history and strengths. Including adding references for potential clients or employers to reach out to, why not show them at an easy glance what others have to say. It can only help you.

So to sum up, I think it can only add value and solidify you in your respected field, to have some great testimonials to share with the world. You want someone to take a risk by hiring you? Including testimonials can 1. help you get that job and 2. help your employer or client feel more at ease taking a risk on you!