Offering a Discount/Return for Client Testimonials?

[Rachel S]

So, we currently have a thread going regarding client testimonials. I thought this would be a easy way for everyone to weigh in on the following off-sides discussion:

If the MT offers a client something in return for a testimonial, does it appear as though the MT is trying to "buy" compliments?

 

[mda]

I think if the client offers something in return for client testimonials it certainly could appear that way. I prefer just to ask and see what happens. That's just me, though.

 

[ChocolateJayDoll]

I think I would just ask...
I would not feel the need to offer some kind of "favor" in return... at least above and beyond what you might do for any of your clients on a given day.

 

[MORRISON ALDRICH]

I don't think it looks great.

 

[Leon]

Idea: What if you offered an incentive for clients to fill out a survey/feedback form and bring it back for a discount? It could have questions like, where did hear about me? What about the ad/listing made you decide to call? Several yes/no closed questions, such as, was the office easy to find? Did you feel like your needs and expectations were addressed? Would you recommend my services to a friend with a similar issue?

For me, I'd add a few about my online features: Have you visited my website, and if so was it easily navigable and clear? Did you know you can request appointments online? (Yes I did that for my appointment/Yes but I haven't done that yet or don't have internet access/No, I didn't know) Did you know that gift certificates are available through my website?

Then at the end, optional space for other feedback AND an OPTIONAL testimonial. The incentive is for just completing the above portion, not necessarily the testimonial.

Yeah?