I run a small design studio and a potential client asked for 30% off in exchange for a video testimonial and a Google review. I'm torn. The exposure could be good, but I've been burned before by vague promises. Has anyone done this? Did it actually bring in more work, or did you just lose money?
Testimonials
Would you discount your work in exchange for a public testimonial?
I did it once for a local restaurant. Gave them a break on a website redesign. They gave me a nice quote and a video. Got two referrals from it within six months, so it paid off. But I made sure the discount was tied to a signed agreement that they'd deliver the testimonial within 30 days of launch.
Personally I wouldn't. A testimonial is nice but it's not cash. If they can't afford your rate, they're probably not the client you want long-term.
Depends on the testimonial format. A written blurb is low effort and often generic. A video testimonial takes their time and feels more authentic. I'd discount for a video, but not more than 15%. And I'd want to see a draft or outline of what they plan to say before agreeing.
That's a good point about video vs written. Mine was a video and it definitely carried more weight than a text review would have.
Thanks for the input. The client specifically offered a video testimonial, which is why I was even considering it. But 30% still feels steep. Maybe I'll counter with 15% and see if they bite.
Also think about who owns the video. If they post it on their own socials, that's fine, but make sure you get a copy you can use on your site and portfolio. Some clients will agree to a testimonial but then never actually record it.
One more thing: get the testimonial before you deliver the final files. Once they have everything, the incentive to follow through drops fast. I learned that the hard way.
Agreed on the timing. I had a client promise a written review for weeks. Eventually I just stopped asking. Not worth the hassle for a small discount, but for a video I'd be more persistent.