Testimonials are very powerful. They allow you to share what is working in your business without having to brag about yourself. The kind of testimonials I am writing about here include the ones from clients, customers, and prospects that talk about the benefits someone has received from using one of your products, taking one of your courses, or working with you directly. These can be used in your email messages to your list to build your relationships even further. This is also referred to as social proof.

If you are not familiar with this type of marketing strategy, or have never received an email that uses this technique, think about someone who has said something positive about one of your products or courses. Imagine them writing to your list and telling a little bit of their story. Then imagine the reaction of your list when they read this email. When they can relate to the testimonial they will be more likely to make a purchase from you.

I first used this idea when I held a teleseminar on an upcoming course I was teaching on article marketing and blogging as a way to build online visibility. After the call one of

According to marketer Dan Kennedy, what others say about you is about one thousand times more believable than what you say about yourself. I have found this to be true, especially on the internet where people may live halfway around the world from you.

Whenever someone emails you with a compliment about what you are doing in your business, ask them right away if you can use what they said as a testimonial. Most people are happy to let you use their comment, along with their name, city, and website. You can include one or two of these in your emails to let the rest of your list know how others feel about you and what you are doing.

I keep a file with testimonials so that I can use them in emails and on my sales letters. The very best testimonials are based on the results somene achieved with you, rather than those that just say how wonderful you are. You decide which ones to use to let others get to know you better.