How to Ask Clients for Testimonials (Email & Message Templates Included)

You just delivered a successful project. The client is thrilled. They sent you a glowing message: “Perfect! Exactly what I needed.”

Then silence.

You want to ask for a testimonial, but the words stick in your throat. What if they say no? What if it sounds desperate? So you say nothing, close the project, and move on.

This moment costs freelancers thousands in lost opportunities. Research from VWO indicates that testimonials increase conversion rates by 34%, yet most freelancers never systematically collect them. The awkwardness wins.

This guide provides eight ready-to-use testimonial request templates, strategic timing guidance, and a system that consistently achieves high response rates. No awkwardness. No rejection. Just copy, customize, and send.

🎁 QUICK ACCESS: Download all 8 templates as a printable PDF below.

How to Ask for Testimonials as a Freelancer (Step-by-Step)

Before diving into templates, understand the complete testimonial collection process:

Step 1: Ask at the Right Time

Timing determines response rates more than any other factor. The golden window occurs within 24-48 hours after a client expresses satisfaction. “Great work!” moments represent peak enthusiasm. Delayed requests face declining response rates as excitement fades.

Additional optimal moments include: after measurable results appear (traffic growth, sales increases), after repeat work or retainer renewals, and within platform-specific feedback windows.

Step 2: Use a Short, Guided Script

Generic requests like “write me a testimonial” create decision paralysis. Clients stare at empty text boxes, unsure what to say or how much detail to provide.

Effective scripts provide three guiding questions that transform the task from creative writing to straightforward question-answering:

• What challenge were you facing?
• What did you like about working together?
• Would you recommend me to others?

Step 3: Make It Effortless

The easier you make the process, the higher your response rate. Offer to draft a testimonial based on their previous feedback for them to review and approve. Most clients prefer this approach because it eliminates effort.

Keep requested testimonials short: three to five sentences maximum. Long testimonials feel burdensome to write and don’t get read when published.

Step 4: Follow Up Once (Then Stop)

Send one polite reminder five to seven days after your initial request if you receive no response. Offer additional assistance: “Would it help if I drafted something for you to approve?”

After one follow-up, respect silence as a boundary. Professional relationships matter more than any single testimonial.

Why Testimonials Matter More Than Your Portfolio

Social Proof Outweighs Experience

When potential clients evaluate two freelancers with similar skills, what breaks the tie? Not years of experience. Not portfolio complexity. Testimonials from other clients decide the outcome.

Clients consistently trust reviews from other buyers more than self-promotional material. What strangers say about your work carries more persuasive weight than what you say about yourself. This psychological principle drives purchasing decisions across all industries, and freelancing is no exception.

Testimonials Enable Premium Positioning

Freelancers displaying robust testimonial collections charge higher rates because social proof creates authority positioning. The presence of consistent positive feedback shifts perception from commodity service provider to premium specialist.

Setting competitive freelance rates becomes easier when testimonials support your value claims. Clients pay premium rates more willingly when others validate the investment.

Testimonials Work Across All Marketing Channels

Portfolio pages, freelance proposals, LinkedIn profiles, website homepages, and email signatures all benefit from strategically placed testimonials.

Building a high-converting Upwork profile requires testimonials as foundational credibility signals. Platforms like Upwork and Fiverr weight testimonials heavily in their recommendation algorithms. Profiles with consistent positive feedback receive more client invites and rank higher in search results.

The versatility makes testimonials the highest-leverage marketing asset available to independent professionals.

When Is the Best Time to Ask for a Testimonial?

Immediately After Positive Feedback (The Golden Window)

The moment a client expresses genuine satisfaction represents the optimal time to request a testimonial. Requests arriving within 24 hours of positive feedback achieve significantly higher response rates than delayed requests.

When a client writes “Great work!” or “Perfect, exactly what I needed,” their enthusiasm exists at maximum intensity. This emotional peak creates compliance momentum. The request feels natural rather than transactional.

Implementation looks straightforward: Client sends positive message → You respond with thanks → Immediately follow with testimonial request using the templates below. Strike while enthusiasm remains fresh.

After Measurable Results Appear

Some projects deliver results that materialize over time rather than immediately. Traffic growth, sales increases, engagement metrics, and conversion improvements often require one to four weeks to become apparent.

For these scenarios, timing the request to coincide with positive results creates stronger testimonials. A client who sees concrete business outcomes writes more compelling social proof than one asked immediately after delivery.

The testimonial request references specific achievements: “Since implementing the new content strategy, your traffic increased substantially. Would you be comfortable sharing a testimonial about these results?”

Results-focused testimonials carry more persuasive power than general praise because they demonstrate concrete business impact.

After Repeat Work or Retainer Renewal

Long-term clients provide the most detailed testimonials because they’ve observed consistent quality over multiple projects or months. Their testimonials address reliability, communication, and sustained performance rather than single-project execution.

When a retainer client renews for a third month or books their fifth project, this milestone signals satisfaction. The request acknowledges the relationship: “We’ve been working together for several months now, and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished. Would you be open to sharing a testimonial about our partnership?”

Platform-Specific Timing Considerations

Upwork’s feedback system operates within a 14-day window after contract closure. Request Upwork feedback immediately upon project completion. External testimonials outside this system require LinkedIn verification and don’t affect Job Success Score, but they build profile credibility.

Fiverr triggers automatic review requests upon order delivery. Encourage clients to leave public reviews rather than private feedback, as public reviews appear on your profile. Follow up with a polite message if the review remains pending after three days.

Direct clients working outside platforms offer maximum flexibility. The two-to-seven-day window after final deliverable approval represents the optimal request timing for email-based projects.

When Not to Ask

Requesting testimonials during revision rounds undermines the request. Wait until revisions complete and satisfaction is confirmed. Similarly, unpaid invoices create awkward dynamics. Never request testimonials before payment clears.

If a client appears stressed, overwhelmed, or dealing with urgent issues, delay the request. Testimonials should feel like easy favors, not additional burdens during difficult periods.

How to Ask for Testimonials: 8 Copy-Paste Templates

Template 1: Short & Simple Email (Beginner-Friendly)

Subject: Quick question about [Project Name]

Hi [Name],

I'm so glad you're happy with [deliverable]! 

Would you mind sharing a quick testimonial about working together? It would help me attract more clients like you.

Here's what would be helpful:
• What problem were you trying to solve?
• What did you like most about working with me?
• Would you recommend me to others?

Takes 2 minutes. I can even draft something for you to approve if that's easier!

Thanks,
[Your Name]

When to use: First-time testimonial requests, clients you have good rapport with, straightforward projects.

Template 2: Results-Focused Request (For Measurable Wins)

Subject: Your results – can I share your success?

Hi [Name],

Fantastic to see the strong results from our project together!

Since the outcomes exceeded expectations, would you be comfortable sharing a testimonial? It would help me show other businesses what's possible.

I'd love to feature:
• The challenge you faced before
• The results you achieved
• What the experience was like

I can write a draft for your review. Sound good?

Best,
[Your Name]

When to use: Projects with measurable outcomes (traffic, sales, conversions, engagement).

Template 3: WhatsApp / Slack / Quick Message

Hey [Name]! 🎉

So glad [project] worked out perfectly. Quick favor:

Could you drop me a 2-3 sentence testimonial I can use on my profile? 

Just:
✅ What you hired me for
✅ What you liked most
✅ Would you recommend me?

Takes 60 seconds. Really appreciate it!

When to use: Informal client relationships, messaging apps, quick turnaround projects.

Template 4: LinkedIn Recommendation Request

Subject: LinkedIn recommendation?

Hi [Name],

I'm updating my LinkedIn and would love a recommendation from you about our work on [project].

I've already written one for you [if applicable] – happy to return the favor!

If you're open to it, here's the link:
[LinkedIn recommendation link]

Thanks for considering!
[Your Name]

When to use: Professional clients, corporate projects, building LinkedIn credibility.

Template 5: Retainer Client / Long-Term Partnership

Subject: Reflecting on our work together

Hi [Name],

We've been working together for [timeframe] now, and I'm really proud of what we've accomplished:
• [Result 1]
• [Result 2]
• [Result 3]

Would you be open to sharing a testimonial about our partnership? Your words would mean a lot and help me work with more clients like you.

I'm happy to draft something for your review if that's easier.

Looking forward to continuing our work!
[Your Name]

When to use: Ongoing retainers, clients past the 3-month mark, renewal milestones.

Template 6: Video Testimonial Request

Subject: Quick video testimonial? (2 minutes)

Hi [Name],

You mentioned how happy you were with the results. Would you be open to a quick 2-minute video testimonial?

Just answer these 3 questions on your phone:
1. What problem were you facing before we worked together?
2. What was it like working with me?
3. What results did you get?

No editing needed – authentic is better than perfect!

I can send a Loom link to make it super easy.

Thanks,
[Your Name]

When to use: High-value clients, impressive results, building video marketing content.

Template 7: Upwork-Specific Request

Subject: Upwork testimonial request

Hi [Name],

Thank you again for the opportunity to work on [project]! I noticed Upwork allows testimonials from external clients, and I'd love to add yours to my profile.

Would you be willing to provide a brief LinkedIn-verified testimonial? It takes about 3 minutes and would really help my profile stand out.

Here's what to include:
• What you hired me for
• The results you got
• Your overall experience

Let me know if you're open to it!

Best,
[Your Name]

When to use: Upwork allows 20 LinkedIn-verified external testimonials that build credibility beyond standard feedback.

Template 8: Follow-Up Reminder (Polite)

Subject: Re: Testimonial request

Hi [Name],

Just following up on my testimonial request from last week. No pressure at all – I know you're busy!

If you'd like, I can write a draft for you to approve. Would take you 30 seconds to review.

Let me know!
[Your Name]

When to use: Five to seven days after initial request receives no response.

💾 Save These Templates: Download the PDF version for easy reference.

Quick Win: Take Action Now

Before reading further, send Template 1 to one past client right now. Open your email, customize the template with their project details, and hit send. This single action could generate opportunities worth thousands of dollars.

The difference between freelancers who succeed and those who struggle often reduces to this practice: consistently requesting testimonials from satisfied clients.

How to Make It Easy for Clients to Write Testimonials

Provide a Framework to Eliminate Decision Paralysis

Blank requests generate low response rates. Clients stare at empty text boxes, unsure what to say or how much detail to provide. The effort barrier kills compliance.

Guided questions transform the task from creative writing exercise to straightforward question-answering:

1. What challenge or problem were you facing before we worked together?
2. What did you like most about the experience?
3. Would you recommend me to others in your situation?

These questions generate specific testimonials that sound authentic rather than generic praise.

Offer to Draft the First Version

Many clients prefer reviewing and approving a pre-written testimonial rather than writing from scratch. The approach removes effort entirely while maintaining authenticity.

The ethical framework requires transparency: “Would it help if I drafted something based on your feedback? You can edit or approve it. Totally up to you!”

Draft testimonials using the client’s actual words from previous communications. Reference specific feedback they’ve shared in emails or messages. The result sounds authentic because it reflects their genuine perspective, simply organized into a testimonial format.

Always secure explicit approval before publishing. Never assume permission.

Keep Testimonials Short (3-5 Sentences Maximum)

Long testimonials don’t get read. Aim for 50-100 words that capture the essential message. Shorter testimonials appear throughout portfolios and proposals without disrupting flow.

When clients submit lengthy testimonials, extract the strongest 3-5 sentences with permission. The edited version delivers more impact than the original rambling paragraph.

What If a Client Ignores Your Request?

The Strategic Follow-Up Timeline

Day 1: Send initial testimonial request
Day 5-7: Send polite reminder (Template 8)
Day 14: Final follow-up with draft offer: “No worries if you’re too busy! I appreciate you either way.”
After Day 14: Stop. Move on to other clients.

This timeline respects professional boundaries while maximizing response probability. Most clients who will respond do so within 14 days.

Why Clients Don’t Respond

Understanding non-response reasons prevents taking silence personally. Common explanations include overwhelming busyness, uncertainty about what to write, simply forgetting amid other responsibilities, or genuine discomfort with providing testimonials.

Each reason has a solution. Busy clients appreciate draft testimonials that require only approval. Clients who don’t know what to write respond well to guided questions. Forgetful clients often respond positively to gentle reminders.

Some clients decline for personal or policy reasons. Respect this boundary without pressure or guilt.

When to Stop Following Up

After two reminders without response, discontinue outreach. If a client explicitly declines, thank them and move forward. When the relationship feels strained by requests, preservation of goodwill outweighs testimonial acquisition.

Professional boundaries matter more than any single testimonial. Maintaining positive relationships with all clients creates sustainable business growth regardless of individual testimonial outcomes.

How to Use Testimonials Strategically

Portfolio Case Studies

Integrate testimonials directly into project descriptions within your portfolio. Include the client’s name and company with permission. Screenshot five-star reviews from platforms for visual credibility.

Building a freelance portfolio becomes easier when even the first projects generate testimonials documenting results.

Proposal Integration

Add one to two relevant testimonials per proposal, matching the testimonial to the prospective client’s industry or problem. Place testimonials after explaining your approach to reinforce capability claims with social proof.

Website Homepage Placement

Feature three to five best testimonials prominently on your homepage. Include client photos where possible, as visual elements strengthen credibility. Rotate testimonials periodically to keep content fresh.

Social Media Content

Transform testimonials into shareable social media content by designing quote graphics. Tag clients with permission to expand reach. Use relevant hashtags to reach broader audiences.

Email Signature Addition

Add a rotating testimonial to your email signature: “Don’t take my word for it: ‘[Short quote]’ – [Client Name], [Company]”

This passive positioning reinforces credibility in every email sent without requiring additional effort.

LinkedIn Featured Section

Pin recommendations to your LinkedIn profile’s featured section. Screenshot particularly strong reviews from platforms to display visually. Reference testimonials in your About section.

LinkedIn recommendations appear in Google searches of your name, providing credibility beyond the platform itself.

The Reality About Testimonials and Career Trajectory

A freelancer who systematically collects ten quality testimonials in their first year will consistently outperform someone with five years of experience but zero social proof.

Experience doesn’t speak for itself. Other people speak for your experience.

The five-year veteran without testimonials presents capability claims without validation. The one-year freelancer with ten testimonials presents the same claims backed by independent verification. Clients choose verified capability over unverified experience every time.

This contrast explains why some freelancers struggle for years while others achieve premium positioning quickly. The difference isn’t talent or skill. It’s a systematic testimonial collection.

Common Mistakes Freelancers Make When Asking for Testimonials

Asking Before the Client Is Genuinely Satisfied

Requesting testimonials before project completion or during revision rounds undermines the request. Wait until satisfaction is confirmed through explicit positive feedback or completed revisions.

Sending Long, Emotional Messages

Messages emphasizing personal need create obligation rather than enthusiasm. Keep requests professional and brief. Frame testimonials as helping you work with more clients like them rather than helping your personal struggles.

Making the Request Self-Centered

Focusing exclusively on your needs feels transactional. Subtle reframing creates better outcomes: “This helps me work with more people like you” or “Your feedback helps others facing similar challenges find the right freelancer.”

Failing to Provide Guidance

Generic requests like “Write me a testimonial” generate poor response rates because they require significant client effort and decision-making. Always provide guiding questions or offer to draft for approval.

Publishing Without Permission

Never publish testimonials without explicit approval. Always ask: “Can I share this on my website/LinkedIn/proposals?” Even enthusiastic feedback requires permission before public use.

Only Asking Obviously Enthusiastic Clients

Neutral clients often provide testimonials when asked. Don’t assume someone needs to express overwhelming enthusiasm before requesting feedback. Professional satisfaction generates effective testimonials even without effusive praise.

Platform-Specific Testimonial Strategies

Upwork Testimonials

Upwork allows 20 LinkedIn-verified external testimonials that appear separately from contract feedback. These testimonials don’t affect Job Success Score but build additional profile credibility.

Request external testimonials after contract closure when the standard feedback window closes. Clients need active LinkedIn profiles for verification. The process takes approximately five minutes.

Fiverr Reviews

Fiverr automatically requests reviews upon order completion. Public reviews appear on profiles while private feedback remains invisible to future clients. Encourage public reviews through polite follow-up messages.

Response to every review, positive or negative, demonstrates professionalism and engagement. Thank clients for positive reviews and address concerns in negative reviews constructively.

LinkedIn Recommendations

LinkedIn recommendations carry formal weight and appear in Google searches of your name. They function as permanent, searchable testimonials.

Offer to write recommendations for clients first, leveraging reciprocity. Most professionals reciprocate when you’ve written them a thoughtful recommendation.

Direct Client Testimonials

Direct client testimonials offer maximum flexibility for use across portfolios, websites, proposals, and marketing materials. Obtain written permission specifying usage rights.

Request client photos and company names for attribution, as specificity increases credibility. Store testimonials in organized folders for easy access when crafting proposals or updating portfolios.

Frequently Asked Questions About Client Testimonials

How long should a testimonial be?

Three to five sentences (50-100 words) represent the ideal length. Short testimonials get read completely. Long testimonials get skipped. Aim for concise statements capturing the essential message without excessive detail.

Can I edit a client’s testimonial?

Yes, with permission. Fix grammatical errors, improve clarity, or condense length while preserving the client’s voice and core message. Always show the edited version for approval before publishing.

Is it okay to write the testimonial myself and have them approve?

Yes. Many clients prefer this approach because it eliminates effort. Maintain transparency by stating: “Would you like me to draft something for your approval?” Base drafts on actual feedback they’ve shared in previous communications.

What if I’m just starting and have zero clients?

Offer discounted or free work to three to five people specifically in exchange for detailed testimonials. Request feedback from former colleagues, managers, or professors about relevant skills. Create sample projects and request peer feedback.

Should I offer discounts in exchange for testimonials?

No. Testimonials should reflect genuine satisfaction earned through quality work, not purchased through discounts. Paying for testimonials undermines authenticity and creates ethical concerns.

Can I use testimonials from Upwork or Fiverr on my personal website?

Yes. Screenshot the review to maintain context and attribution. Always credit properly: “John D., Upwork Client” or “Sarah M., Fiverr Buyer.” Platform testimonials carry credibility because they’re verified by third parties.

What if a client gives a mediocre or lukewarm testimonial?

Thank them graciously without publishing it. You’re not obligated to use every testimonial received. Selective publication maintains quality standards for your social proof portfolio.

How many testimonials should I aim to collect?

Start with five testimonials to establish initial credibility. Work toward ten to fifteen testimonials for diverse social proof. Feature your three to five strongest testimonials prominently, rotating others periodically.

Should I ask for video testimonials or written testimonials?

Both formats serve different purposes. Written testimonials integrate easily into proposals and websites. Video testimonials create stronger emotional connections and work well for homepage placement. Start with written testimonials, then request video testimonials from your best client relationships.

Your 5-Step Testimonial Collection System

Step 1: Deliver Work Worth Recommending

Testimonials begin with results, not requests. Consistently exceeding expectations creates the foundation for enthusiastic testimonials. Clear communication throughout projects builds positive client relationships that translate into willing testimonial providers.

Step 2: Identify the Perfect Moment

Watch for positive feedback signals in client communications. The phrase “Great work!” or “Perfect, exactly what I needed” signals readiness. Request testimonials within 24-48 hours while enthusiasm remains fresh.

Step 3: Select and Customize Your Template

Choose from the eight templates above based on client relationship type, project outcome, and communication channel. Customize with specific project details that demonstrate you’re not sending generic mass requests.

Step 4: Follow Up Once If Needed

Wait five to seven days without response before sending a polite reminder. Offer to draft the testimonial for approval to remove remaining effort barriers. After one follow-up, respect silence as a boundary.

Step 5: Publish and Leverage Strategically

Add new testimonials to your portfolio immediately. Include them in the next three proposals sent. Post on LinkedIn or relevant social media with client permission. Update your website regularly with fresh social proof.

Testimonials generate value only when actively deployed across marketing channels.

Start Building Your Testimonial Library Today

Testimonials represent the most powerful marketing asset available to freelancers. They’re not optional nice-to-haves; they’re essential infrastructure for sustainable business growth.

Begin with your happiest clients from the last 90 days. Use Template 1 (Short & Simple) for your first request. Set a concrete goal: three testimonials by month-end, ten within 90 days.

Action: Open your email now and send Template 1 to one past client. This single message could unlock opportunities worth thousands of dollars over the next year.

Professional freelancers request testimonials systematically. Those who don’t hope someone volunteers.

Next steps:

• Review your last five completed projects
• Send testimonial requests to three clients this week
• Master freelance proposals that win clients
• Build a high-converting freelance profile
• Download your free contract templates