How to Ask for Testimonials and Referrals (Without It Feeling Pushy)

/

Getting referrals from happy clients should feel as natural as them bragging about their new kitchen island. Instead, it often feels like asking someone to write a love letter for you: weird, a little vulnerable, and kind of pushy if you get the timing wrong. But don’t worry—we’ve got some tips to make the whole process feel effortless and just smoother.

1. Timing Is Everything

Let’s start with the golden rule of referrals: ask when your client is happiest. Think about it—right after they’ve stepped into their newly designed space or received their final project photos is when the excitement is at its peak (and after letting them catch their breath!). That’s when they’ll be most eager to sing your praises, so strike while the iron is hot.

2. Include It In Your Process

Asking for referrals shouldn’t be an afterthought. Instead, weave it into your project wrap-up process. Include it on your checklist alongside delivering final touches or staging photos. For an extra nudge, consider pairing the ask with a little thank-you gesture, like a handwritten note or a small appreciation gift. Slip in a referral card or testimonial request, and your clients will be more likely to reciprocate with a glowing endorsement.

3. Make It Easy on Them

Let’s face it: nobody likes extra work. If you want clients to refer you, the process should be as simple as clicking a link or scanning a QR code. Whether it’s for writing a testimonial or sharing your contact info, making the process easy shows you value their time—and increases the chances they’ll actually follow through.

4. Use Your Client’s Words

Sometimes, your clients do half the work for you. When they compliment your work, that’s your chance to say, “I’d love for others to hear that—would you be willing to share your thoughts in a testimonial?” It feels natural, and it takes the pressure off them to come up with something entirely new. 

5. Offer Structured Guidance

Writing doesn’t come naturally to everyone, so help your clients out with a little structure. Create a short questionnaire to guide them, focusing on things you know will highlight your strengths. Ask questions like, “What was the biggest change you noticed after the redesign?” or “How does your space make you feel now compared to before?” Thoughtful prompts lead to testimonials that feel authentic—and pack a bigger punch.

6. Highlight How Referrals Help Others

If you feel cheeky asking for referrals, remember that they’re not just about you. Yes, they help grow your business, but they also make your clients the hero of their social circle. Frame it this way: “If you have friends or family looking for a designer, I’d love to help them transform their space just like I did for you.” It’s a win-win—you gain potential clients, and they get to help someone else find a trusted expert.

7. Leverage Social Media

In today’s world, a tagged photo can be as valuable as a handwritten testimonial. Encourage your clients to snap pictures of your work and share them with their followers, tagging your account. Not only does it get your work in front of their network, but it also gives you ready-made content to share on your own profiles. It’s an organic way to keep the referrals flowing.

Referrals don’t have to be awkward; they just need the right approach, and now you’ve got the tools to nail it. Because when your work speaks for itself, all you really need is a little nudge.

xx, Danae