Client testimonials can build trust, attract new clients, and showcase your expertise. They highlight your professionalism, skills, and the overall experience you offer. Testimonials also help improve your online presence, justify premium pricing, and boost your reputation. Here’s how you can effectively gather and use them:
- Ask at the right moment: Request feedback when clients are happy, like after their appointment or within 48 hours via text or email.
- Make it easy: Provide templates or prompts to guide clients on what to share, such as how they felt about the results or the service.
- Leverage digital platforms: Use Google Reviews, Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp to collect and display testimonials. Encourage tagging and sharing for social proof.
- Showcase testimonials effectively: Include concise quotes alongside before-and-after photos in your portfolio. Group feedback by service type and use a mix of formats like written, video, or star ratings.
- Follow legal guidelines: Always get written consent before using client feedback or images and respect privacy preferences.
How to get more salon client reviews (and grow your beauty business)
How to Ask for Client Testimonials
Asking for testimonials doesn't have to feel awkward or pushy. The trick is to approach clients at the right time, with a friendly tone, and make the process as easy as possible.
Pick the Right Time
The best moment to ask for a testimonial is right after the appointment, when the client is admiring their new look in the mirror. A smile, a selfie, or an enthusiastic "I love it!" are clear signs they're happy - and that's the perfect time to ask.
You can also follow up within 24–48 hours via text or email. This keeps the experience fresh in their mind while giving them time to soak in compliments from friends and family about their new style.
Avoid asking during stressful moments, like when a client is running late or seems unhappy. Wait until they’re relaxed and clearly pleased with the results.
Use a Friendly and Professional Approach
Keep your request natural and conversational, not rehearsed. For example, you could say:
"I’m so glad you love your new cut! Would you mind sharing a quick review about your experience? It helps others know what to expect when they book."
If you're following up later, make it personal by referencing something specific from their appointment. Here’s an example:
"Hi Sarah! I hope you’re still loving your new layered bob. If you have a moment, I’d really appreciate it if you could leave a short review about your experience. Your feedback means so much and helps others feel confident about booking."
Texts work well for clients who prefer quick communication, while emails might suit those who prefer a slightly more formal touch. For long-term clients with whom you’ve built a strong relationship, even a quick phone call can be effective.
And no matter the outcome, always thank them for their time - even if they don’t leave a review right away.
Give Clients a Simple Template
Sometimes clients want to help but don’t know what to say. A simple template can make things easier and increase the chances of receiving a thoughtful testimonial.
Encourage them to focus on three areas: the quality of their haircut or styling, how comfortable they felt during the appointment, and any standout details about the service. You can also include prompts like:
- "How did you feel when you saw the final result?"
- "What would you tell a friend who’s thinking about booking an appointment?"
Clients often mention details like how precise their cut was or how healthy their hair feels afterward. These comments may reflect the tools you use, like professional-grade shears. For instance, high-quality tools - such as Shihan Shears made from premium Japanese steel - can deliver cleaner cuts and reduce hair damage, which might naturally come up in their feedback.
A follow-up message combining timing and a template could look like this:
"If you’d like to leave a review, feel free to share whatever stood out to you - maybe how the cut turned out, how you felt during the appointment, or what you’d tell a friend considering booking."
Using Review Platforms and Social Media
Digital platforms make it easy to gather and showcase client testimonials, helping you build trust and attract new customers.
Get Clients to Leave Public Reviews
Google Reviews should be your go-to. They often show up directly in search results, making them incredibly valuable for your business. After a successful appointment, send a quick, friendly text with a direct link to your Google Business Profile. For example:
"Thanks for visiting today! If you have a moment, I’d really appreciate a quick review on Google. Here’s the link: [your direct review link]."
Different platforms work for different audiences, so use them all to your advantage. Facebook reviews, for instance, help foster a sense of community around your salon or barbershop. Share before-and-after photos (with permission) on your page and invite happy clients to comment or leave a review.
Instagram is perfect for visual testimonials. Encourage clients to tag your business when they post their new look. With their consent, you can repost these to your stories. Better yet, create a permanent "Reviews" highlight on your profile to keep these testimonials visible for new followers.
Yelp is still a strong player in many cities. Some clients rely on it to find new stylists, so having recent reviews here can make a big difference. Since Yelp has strict review filters, focus on asking your most loyal clients to leave feedback.
Timing is key. Send review requests within 2–3 hours after the appointment, when clients are still excited about their experience. Be specific about where they should leave the review. For instance:
"I’m working on building up my Google reviews - would you mind leaving a quick one there? It would mean a lot!"
This clear and personal approach makes it easy for clients to follow through.
Monitor and Respond to Feedback
Set aside 10–15 minutes each week to review new comments on all platforms. This small effort helps maintain your professional image and shows clients that you value their input.
When responding to positive reviews, make it personal. Instead of a generic "Thanks for the review!" try something like:
"Jessica, I’m thrilled you loved your highlights! It was such a pleasure creating your first balayage - you looked amazing!"
For constructive feedback, respond within 24–48 hours. Acknowledge the concern, apologize if needed, and offer to continue the conversation privately. For example:
"Hi Mark, I’m sorry your visit didn’t meet expectations. I’d love the chance to make things right. Please call me at [phone number] so we can discuss this further."
Stay professional and avoid public arguments over negative reviews. A thoughtful response can actually strengthen trust with potential clients.
Pay attention to recurring themes in reviews. If clients frequently mention long wait times or praise your precision, use these insights to tweak your scheduling or highlight your strengths in marketing efforts. To stay on top of feedback, set up Google Alerts for your business name or enable notifications on review platforms.
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Adding Testimonials to Portfolios
Once you’ve gathered testimonials, the next step is integrating them into your portfolio in a way that truly resonates with potential clients. Combining striking visuals with authentic client feedback can elevate your portfolio and make a lasting impression.
Format Testimonials for Easy Reading
When showcasing testimonials, presentation matters. Here are some tips to make them engaging and accessible:
- Keep it concise. Pull out 1–2 standout sentences that capture the client’s experience while keeping their voice intact. For instance, you could shorten a longer comment to: "My hair transformation exceeded expectations - I now receive compliments everywhere!"
- Pair with visuals. Include before-and-after photos alongside the testimonial to tell a complete story. Placing the feedback directly next to the image ensures a seamless narrative.
- Maintain consistency. Format testimonials uniformly by including the client’s first name, an italicized quote, and the service provided. This polished look makes your portfolio easy to navigate and professional.
- Highlight specifics. Focus on detailed outcomes like improved hair texture or a long-lasting cut. These specifics help potential clients imagine similar results for themselves.
- Make them pop. Use design elements like borders, background colors, or unique fonts to draw attention to testimonials without overwhelming the page.
Organize Testimonials by Service Type
Grouping testimonials by service type is a smart way to demonstrate your versatility and expertise. Here’s how to structure them:
- Create categories. Divide testimonials into sections for cutting, coloring, styling, or other specialties. This helps clients quickly find feedback relevant to their needs.
- Lead with the best. Start each section with your strongest testimonials. For instance, if precision cuts are your specialty, showcase glowing feedback about that skill upfront.
- Showcase your tools. If clients mention specific tools like Shihan Shears (https://shihanshears.com), include those details to subtly reinforce your commitment to quality.
- Balance the feedback. Even if you excel in one area, aim to include at least 2–3 testimonials for each major service. This demonstrates range and appeals to a broader audience.
- Think seasonally. For services tied to specific times of the year, like wedding updos or summer trims, consider grouping testimonials by season to align with when clients are likely to seek those services.
Tailor the format of each section to suit the service type, ensuring the testimonials feel relevant and impactful.
Compare Different Testimonial Formats
Using a mix of testimonial formats can enhance your portfolio’s appeal and credibility. Each format has its strengths:
| Format | Best For | Advantages | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Written Quotes | Digital and print portfolios | Simple to edit, quick to read | Can feel less personal than video |
| Video Testimonials | Websites and social media | Conveys emotion, shows personality | Time-intensive to create; requires editing |
| Star Ratings | Online profiles and review sections | Instant credibility, easy to compare | Best paired with detailed feedback for context |
Written quotes are ideal for portfolios where space is limited, offering quick, digestible insights. They’re perfect for traditional layouts and websites.
Video testimonials add a personal and emotional touch, showcasing client transformations in their own words. These work especially well on social media or service pages, though they require more effort to produce.
Star ratings provide an at-a-glance view of client satisfaction. While simple, they’re most effective when combined with in-depth testimonials that provide context and detail.
For maximum impact, blend these formats thoughtfully. For example, start with a compelling written quote, include a short video testimonial for a signature service, and use star ratings to emphasize consistent client satisfaction. This variety keeps your portfolio dynamic and helps build trust with prospective clients.
Legal and Ethical Guidelines
Following legal and ethical rules when using client testimonials is essential. Not only does it protect your business, but it also builds trust and strengthens your professional reputation - an important part of your portfolio.
Get Written Permission
Obtaining written consent is a must. Before using any client photos, quotes, or personal stories in your portfolio or marketing materials, always secure their permission in writing.
A well-crafted consent form should include: a clear explanation of how you intend to use the testimonial or photos, details about data handling and confidentiality, and explicit permission for promotional use. For instance, eSign.com's Hair Salon Consent Form asks: "Do you allow the salon to take photos of your hair for promotional use? ☐ Yes ☐ No".
The form should emphasize that participation is voluntary, and clients must understand they can withdraw their consent at any time without consequences. Include a space for their signature and date to confirm informed consent, and ensure they receive a copy for their records.
Use straightforward, easy-to-understand language in the form. Avoid legal jargon or overly technical terms that might confuse clients. Before using any consent form, have it reviewed by legal professionals to ensure it meets current laws and ethical standards.
For more specific agreements, consider creating a separate photo release form. This allows you to outline detailed usage rights while keeping your general consent form simple. After obtaining consent, safeguard client information with strong privacy practices.
Protect Client Privacy
Protecting client privacy goes beyond obtaining initial consent - it involves ongoing efforts to respect confidentiality and maintain trust over time.
Key privacy practices include:
- Respecting client preferences: If a client requests certain details remain private, honor their wishes, even if you have general consent.
- Limiting personal information: Use first names only and avoid sharing sensitive details like addresses, phone numbers, or specific personal circumstances unless explicitly approved.
- Securing consent forms: Store them safely, whether in locked filing cabinets or password-protected digital systems.
- Regular reviews: Check testimonial consents quarterly to ensure they still align with client preferences.
- Transparent communication: Clearly explain your privacy policies, including how long information will be retained and how clients can request changes.
When clients feel their privacy is respected and protected, they’re more likely to provide authentic, positive testimonials. These practices not only encourage honest feedback but also strengthen trust and long-term relationships with your clients.
Conclusion
A strong portfolio thrives on timely, genuine testimonials and ethical practices. Use platforms like Google and social media to gather public reviews that enhance your credibility. Showcase these testimonials in an organized way - group them by service and include a mix of formats - to help potential clients navigate your offerings with ease. Always stay within legal and ethical boundaries to safeguard your business and nurture long-term trust. By following these steps, you can create a portfolio that effectively highlights your expertise and professionalism.
FAQs
What’s the best way to ask clients for testimonials without making them uncomfortable?
Collecting testimonials begins with creating a great experience for your clients and making it easy for them to share their thoughts. Start by providing excellent service - happy clients are naturally more willing to share positive feedback. Once you've had a successful interaction, politely ask for a testimonial, letting them know how much their input matters to you. Timing is key here: reaching out soon after their positive experience ensures it's still fresh in their minds.
Simplify the process by giving them a direct link or a short form they can complete via email or text. If privacy is a concern, offer the option to submit their feedback anonymously. Show your appreciation by expressing genuine gratitude, and if it feels appropriate, consider offering a small token of thanks to encourage participation - just make sure it feels natural and not like an obligation.
How can I collect client testimonials while ensuring legal compliance and protecting their privacy?
To make sure your client testimonials comply with legal standards and respect privacy, always get written consent before sharing their feedback. Be upfront about how the testimonial will be used and confirm they’re okay with any personal details, like their name or photo, being included.
Stick to the original wording of the testimonial - don’t exaggerate or modify it. This keeps things honest and avoids any issues with misleading claims. A straightforward testimonial release form can help you document consent and maintain a professional relationship. By being clear and respecting your clients’ boundaries, you’ll build a portfolio that people trust.
What’s the best way to showcase client testimonials in my portfolio to attract more clients?
To make your portfolio stand out, weave client testimonials directly into your project descriptions by showcasing specific results or success stories. This not only builds trust but also highlights the value you bring to your clients. Consider using engaging formats like pull quotes, short videos, or before-and-after comparisons to make these testimonials visually engaging and memorable.
Regularly update your testimonials to feature your most recent work, ensuring they stay relevant and reflect your current expertise. Pairing them with case studies or project highlights can further reinforce your credibility and provide potential clients with a clear understanding of what you can achieve. Keep the presentation clean, organized, and easy to navigate, so it leaves a professional impression.