1) Automation – Check with automated solutions to help solicit feedback / testimonials. For example, with some auction software like eBay allow you to set up customized automated messages to ask for comments and feedback. Insert a number to let the system know how many days to wait after the purchase to email the message, and you're set up for all your future auctions.
Same thing with autoresponders: preload a message in your autoresponder that asks for testimonials and have it go out a few days after your ‘Thank You' for your purchase message goes out or automated download link is delivered by email. Follow up a week later with another one, just in case the first is ignored or filtered out for some reason.
2) Take the lead and let your customers know you seek testimonials to update your marketing materials. Ask them to respond to specific points about their purchase like the quality, speed of delivery, value for the money, etc. This will help you get more of a response than brief comments.
3) Write a case study on your client and then submit it for their approval. You can do the same with detailed feedback / testimonial comments, too. In other words, write out what you'd like the comment to say, then send it back for proofing to make sure the client will agree that it is accurate and works for them.
4) Get a system in place to always seek testimonials. For example, have a prewritten message in your Draft folder that is triggered by a sales letter from your auctions and online stores that mentions a Thank You for the purchase plus asks for testimonials. Or set up a similar system where this is a step in the communication process for each new buyer.
5) Check out software scripts that you can place on your website to invite people to leave testimonials similar to leaving comments on blogs.
6) Call or write personal letters and postcards. Include a notice of thanks and request for testimonials for your online marketing use.
Get in tune with other ways people ask you to leave testimonials, too. Then reach out and ask!
