I used to think a good testimonial was just a one-liner like, “She changed my life!” slapped on a landing page.
But when I started coaching full-time, I quickly realized… that just doesn’t cut it anymore.
People are more skeptical these days. They’ve seen every sales pitch, every fake-sounding review. What they really want is proof — the kind that feels real, specific, and relatable. And trust me, I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that a few solid pieces of social proof can totally transform your credibility and help you close more clients.
Here’s what’s worked for me and other coaches I know — 8 types of testimonials and social proof examples that actually move the needle.
1. Before-and-After Stories
This one’s a classic — and for good reason. People want transformation. So if you can show how a client went from stuck to thriving? That’s gold.
I had a client named Jenna who went from barely landing calls to booking out her schedule 3 months in advance. I shared her story in a video testimonial, and boom — booked two consults that same day. Make it detailed. Make it real. Don’t be afraid to include the “before” mess.
Want more ways to connect this to your brand? Check out 5 tips on building a coaching brand online to elevate your authority.
2. Video Testimonials with Real Emotions
Written quotes are fine, but video? Video is powerful. I once got a 60-second iPhone clip from a client right after her first $10K month. She was crying. Totally raw, totally honest. That video has done more for my credibility than anything else on my website.
People connect with energy and tone. They want to feel the results, not just read them.
3. Screenshots of Client Messages
This is the low-key MVP. You know those “OMG I just hit my goal!!!” DMs or Voxer messages? Screenshot them. Crop out any private info and add them to your social proof bank.
I post these on Instagram Stories a lot — they’re super authentic, and they make people stop scrolling. Plus, you’re not putting words in anyone’s mouth. It’s literally what your client said.
If you’re focused on getting more of these moments, here’s a guide on how to attract clients for coaching that shows how trust-building content works.
4. Social Media Shoutouts
Sometimes the best testimonials are the ones you don’t ask for. When clients tag you in their wins or shout you out in a post, that’s powerful. It’s unsolicited proof. Screenshot it, reshare it, save it.
Those organic shoutouts are like a friend vouching for you — and they build trust fast.
Social proof works even better when paired with the right offer. Here’s why you should add bonuses to your coaching offer to give potential clients that final nudge.
5. Case Studies on Your Blog or Website
If you want to go deeper, write up a full case study. Walk through where the client started, what you worked on, and what changed. Include their own words when possible.
I created one about a business coach I worked with who doubled her rates after 6 weeks. The post got shared like crazy — and positioned me as an authority without feeling salesy.
And if you’re working on content like this, pair it with a high-converting coaching sales page that builds on the momentum.
6. Results-Based Testimonials with Metrics
“I feel better” is nice, but “I doubled my income” or “lost 15 pounds in 8 weeks”? That’s what grabs attention. Be specific about numbers, timelines, and results.
If you coach in a results-oriented niche (business, fitness, mindset), measurable outcomes speak louder than generic praise.
7. Client Wins Highlight Reel
Try this: take 10 screenshots of client wins and stack them into a carousel or short video. Call it your “Client Win Wall” or “What My Clients Are Saying.” You can post it monthly or drop it in your onboarding funnel.
I started doing this in my email list once a month, and responses shot up. People love seeing momentum — it builds FOMO in the best way.
Want to set this up for consistent success? Learn how to automate bookings and payments for coaching so you’re ready to handle the wave of leads that follow.
8. Third-Party Reviews (Google, LinkedIn, Facebook)
Don’t overlook platforms people already trust. Ask clients to leave a review on LinkedIn or Google My Business. I had one client write a glowing LinkedIn recommendation — and three leads said that’s what made them book a call.
It’s a little more work to collect, but it adds serious credibility. These reviews often show up in search, too. Bonus SEO points.
Final Thoughts: Make It Easy, Make It Real
Here’s my best advice? Don’t wait for the perfect testimonial. Use what you’ve got. Ask clients for feedback often, and make it easy for them to share — with prompts, questions, or just a “How’s it going?” message after a win.
The best social proof is honest, emotional, and specific. It doesn’t have to be polished, it just has to be real.
And the more you use it, the easier it becomes to attract new clients who already believe in your magic before they even hop on a discovery call.
