How to Get Testimonials for Your Online Course

How to Get Testimonials for Your Online Course

Testimonials are powerful tools that can significantly boost the credibility and appeal of your online course. They provide social proof, assuring potential students that your course delivers real value. However, gathering authentic and compelling testimonials requires strategy and effort. Here’s how you can effectively collect testimonials to enhance your course’s reputation and attract more enrollments.

1. Ask Your Students Directly

The simplest way to get testimonials is to ask for them. Many satisfied students are happy to share their experiences but may not think to do so unless prompted. After a student completes your course or achieves a milestone, send a personalized email expressing gratitude for their participation and kindly request feedback. Make it easy for them by including a few guiding questions, such as:

  • What was your biggest takeaway from the course?
  • How has the course helped you achieve your goals?
  • Would you recommend this course to others? Why?

2. Offer Incentives for Feedback

Sometimes, students need a little extra motivation to leave a testimonial. Consider offering a small incentive, such as a discount on a future course, a free resource, or entry into a giveaway. Be transparent about your request—let them know their feedback will help others make informed decisions while also rewarding them for their time.

3. Leverage Social Proof Mid-Course

Don’t wait until the course ends to gather testimonials. If a student expresses enthusiasm during the course—whether in discussion forums, emails, or live sessions—ask if you can use their positive comments as a testimonial. Mid-course feedback is often raw and genuine, capturing the immediate impact of your teaching.

4. Create a Testimonial Submission Form

Streamline the process by creating a simple form where students can submit testimonials. Include fields for their name, profession (if relevant), and a space for their written or video testimonial. Tools like Google Forms, Typeform, or even a dedicated page on your website can make this process seamless.

5. Showcase Video Testimonials

Written testimonials are great, but video testimonials add an extra layer of authenticity. Seeing and hearing a real person speak about their positive experience can be incredibly persuasive. Encourage students to record short video clips sharing their thoughts, and feature these on your sales page or social media.

6. Highlight Success Stories

Go beyond generic praise by turning testimonials into compelling success stories. Interview past students in-depth about their journey—what challenges they faced before taking your course, how the course helped them, and the results they achieved. These detailed narratives resonate deeply with potential students.

7. Engage with Student Communities

If your course has a private Facebook group, Slack channel, or other community space, actively engage with students and encourage them to share their wins. When they post about their progress, ask for permission to repurpose their words as testimonials. Public praise within a community also reinforces trust among current students.

8. Follow Up Strategically

Not everyone will respond to your first request. A polite follow-up email a week or two later can remind busy students to share their thoughts. Keep the tone appreciative and low-pressure—express that their feedback is valuable but entirely optional.

Final Thoughts

Testimonials are more than just praise—they’re proof of your course’s impact. By proactively seeking feedback, making the process easy, and showcasing authentic stories, you’ll build trust and credibility that drives enrollments. Start implementing these strategies today, and watch your course’s reputation grow!

Would you like help crafting the perfect testimonial request email? Let me know—I’d be happy to share templates!