Testimonials and Shout-Outs
Often times at networking events there is an opportunity to give a shout-out or testimonial depending on the type of meeting you are attending. This is a great way to acknowledge someone who gave you great service or thank someone for business received.
There is a difference between testimonials and shout-outs. A testimonial has a story and tells how we helped them. Testimonials are used more at networking leads groups like BNI or LeTip. A shout-out is more about giving recognition to someone. Usually it’s very quick.
A good friend of mine from my BNI days, Debbi Schmidt gives the best testimonials. I asked her recently what is her special formula for giving such great testimonials.
Debbi Schmidt’s formula for great testimonials:
- Explain what they do. Be very clear. How do they help their clients? What services do they offer?
- Say something you learned about them. This could be something on the personal side, like a hobby or trait that stood out about them and would be interesting for others to hear
- If you used their service, what did you like about it? Be specific.
- Who is a good connection for them?
- Use descriptive adjectives
- Invite/encourage others to set up a 1:1 with that person
- If you need some extra information, consult their website to help fill in facts
Giving a well thought out testimonial serves multiple purposes. One, it showcases the individual and what they do. Two, it shows you as a caring individual who really understands their business and is interested in connecting others.
Here’s an example of a testimonial:
“I would like to give a testimonial for Tina Rea who does Shiatsu massage. I’ve been having problems with my knee. Even after going to physical therapy I knew I needed something else. Tina is very knowledgeable about how the body works and how the meridians work together and explains things in ways I can understand. In addition to having a Shiatsu massage session, Tina always gives me other exercises to help augment my PT sessions. You also get to keep your clothes on too! I would highly recommend going to see Tina for a Shiatsu massage session.”
A shout-out would be a quick thank you for sending a great client to you or thanking them for helping you with something. Often times Chamber of Commerce events ask for quick shout-outs.
An example of a shout-out is:
“I’d like to give a shout-out today to Barbara Dieringer with Core Synergy Pilates. Barbara has a wonderful studio and gives personal attention to you in showing you how to improve your core and helps my tennis game. I’d highly suggest having a 1:1 with Barbara and go see her studio.” (Barbara is in the Tigard Chamber and I would give that shout-out at the end of the meeting).
Now you also know how I’m able to stay active on the tennis court with the help of these wonderful health practioners. 😊
Testimonials and shout-outs can be used for Google Reviews, LinkedIn Recommendations, Facebook Reviews and at networking events. They are a great way to build your community, show you care and create new connections.
March is Women's History Month - a great time to celebrate your fellow female businesswomen!
Out & About with Stephanie – My Upcoming Networking Calendar
March 11th – 100 Strong in Beaverton – Quarterly meeting and fundraiser that supports local non-profits
https://beaverton.org/events/100-strong-in-beaverton/
March 14th – Girl Day Retreat – Led by Amy Civica & Pam Mills. www.Aplacetoberetreats.com
March 17th – Rad Connections Luncheon led by Starr Shepherd-Decker
https://www.meetup.com/Coaches-Healers-Connect-PDX/events/htsqmrybcfbwb/
This event repeats every third Tuesday of the month from noon to 2pm.
March 17th – NW Coaches Connect
https://www.meetup.com/NW-Coaches-Connect/events/269039619/
This month’s topic: “Top Tools for Coaches to Create Healthy Communities”
This event repeats every third Tuesday of the month from 6:00- 7:30PM.
March 25th – Biz Babes in the Burbs
https://www.meetup.com/Biz-Babes-in-the-burbs/events/269010125/
New Meetup group that is for women entrepreneurs in the Hillsboro area.
March 25th – Ladies Who Lunch – Lake Oswego
https://www.facebook.com/groups/ladieswholunchoregon/
This event repeats every 4th Wednesday of the month from noon to 1pm.
April 13th – Women to Women Networking – Coffee & Conversation
Go to the Facebook group by this name. Join and then you can get the info.
This is held every second Monday of the month from 8:30-10AM.
Still not sure how to squeeze networking into your schedule or the best way to ramp up your networking?
Call me at 503-539-2602 or click here to connect via email.
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