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This article goes along with Episode 8 of the AI Client Attraction Podcast, where I share simple ways new coaches can start getting testimonials, build credibility, and show potential clients how they can help.
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When you’re a new coach, one of the things you may be wondering is:
How am I supposed to get testimonials if I haven’t had many clients yet?
It can feel a little like you need clients to get testimonials...but you need testimonials to help you get clients.
The good news is you can start building that social proof before you have a long list of paying clients.
Start by Helping People
You don't have to wait until you've built a full coaching practice to start getting feedback.
Look for opportunities to help people who fit the type of client you want to work with.
You might offer a few free or low-cost mini coaching sessions, help someone work through a specific problem, or invite a small group of people to test a new coaching session or offer.
The goal isn't just to get a testimonial.
Give them a genuinely helpful experience first.
Then, if they found the experience valuable, ask if they'd be willing to share a few words about it.
Ask for Specific Feedback
Sometimes people don't know what to say when you ask, “Can you give me a testimonial?”
Make it easier by asking a few simple questions.
You could ask:
What were you struggling with before we worked together?
What was most helpful about our session?
What changed or became clearer for you afterward?
Their answers can give you a much stronger testimonial than simply asking whether they enjoyed working with you.
And always ask permission before using their words, name, or photo in your marketing.
Don't Forget the People You've Already Helped
You may have more experience than you realize.
Think about people you've helped through a free training, workshop, coaching conversation, group, or another part of your business.
If someone has genuinely benefited from your help, you can ask them for feedback about that specific experience.
Just be clear about what the testimonial represents. You don't want to make it sound like someone was a private coaching client if they weren't.
Use Your Testimonials
Once you start receiving testimonials, don't let them sit in a folder somewhere.
Add them to places where potential clients are already learning about you — your website, coaching pages, emails, and social media.
You don't need dozens of testimonials to get started.
Even a few honest testimonials can help someone see that you've helped real people and give them a better idea of what it might be like to work with you.
Start With the Experience
If you're a new coach, don't put all your energy into worrying about not having enough testimonials yet.
Focus on becoming good at what you do, helping people, and creating experiences worth talking about.
The testimonials will start to come from there.
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