"I'll Pay you $50 for your testimonial"

[Josh Anderson]

That would not be right would it?

So why do so many of these "free product if you give me a testimonial" threads show up every day on the warrior forum?

Sure people need testimonials but I Just saw a thread were people posted a testimonial right in the thread without even getting the product first.

Come on are you guys testimonial whores or what?

Not only does the person posting the thread requesting unqualified testimonials (which is just about common here on a daily basis) ding their own credibility but the people who throw testimonials around like they are tossing out candy and a parade do to.

Asking for people to review your product is one thing but buying testimonials?

That just ain't the way to do it and that is exactly what all you guys are doing who keep posting threads saying you will give away your product if someone gives you a testimonial.

[Always-A-Warrior]

No that would not be right. I'll do it for $100.

In all seriousness, you're right. Testimonials should come natural and not paid for.

[Jared Alberghini]

Yea... I hear ya Josh... but isn't this tactic a tiny bit better than writing fake testimonials? LOL

- Jared

[strsinthesky]

If you have a great product, and have enough friends, then this shouldn't be a problem. Have your friends review your product, and they will give you a good honest testimonial.

[TLTheLiberator]

There are companies that will review your product or service and give a fair assessment for a price.

Is there anything wrong with that?

TL

[Josh Anderson]

The warrior forum has become the place to "buy" testimonials. Not only will letting this continue hurt the credibility of forum members in general in some cases using these type of testimonials without disclosure that the person was paid for their testimonial (even with your product as payment) in your sales copy and ads can be illegal.

There is nothing wrong with seeking people to review your product and if they like it sending you a testimonial.

But I just saw a thread where one warrior said they would give a free product if someone would give them a testimonial and someone posted a testimonial right in the thread not even having reviewed the product.

Just about every day here I see a thread saying "I'll give you a product if you give me a testimonial." Give me a break!

I saw one the other week and the person offered to give a product for a few testimonials and the first person replied and got the product... I replied because the product sounded interesting (I do not do many reviews though I get PM requests all the time) but I said I could not promise a testimonial... I was the second to reply and they never sent me a review.

I guess only up front paid for testimonials qualified.

[Kay King]

I noticed that same thread - amazing what people will do to get a product for free, isn't it? Of course, it's double edged as the OP gets to put in a plug for his upcoming WSO, too.

A testimonial is worth nothing to me unless I know (or know of) the person giving it - and know they wouldn't trade their rep for a freebie.

kay

[David_Thompson]

Originally Posted by Josh Anderson

Come on are you guys testimonial whores or what?

Josh you're forgetting it's the oldest trade in the world man...LOL

Sorry bro I know it's a serious thread you've started but could
help taking a stick at this...lol

--David

[Bev Clement]

It is one thing to ask for a review of something, but to demand a testimonial and to say it has to be video, and the best of the best when the product could for all we know be total rubbish.

[mmurtha]

Gee guys, don't you know that's the only way to get testimonials?? <stated a bit sniddy deliberately>

The real problem is that people ask in this manner because they simply lazy, or either don't know how to get a legit testimonial, or can't get one based on the products.

I'm inclined to think it's laziness.

I know I've told people I would give them testimonials if I believe the product/service to be worthy. You'd be surprised to know how many people will not send a review copy if you do not promise the testimonial.

Lol in these cases, I remind them that they are needing something from me, not the other way around. Lol I've been marketing for a number of years, so I don't need their products/services. BUT they do need the testimonial.
If that doesn't work, then I simply tell them I'm NOT interested.


Josh,

Good post, and thanks for bringing it up!

[John Taylor]

I think your thread Rocks Josh, it's one of
the most insightful threads I've read all day
and your headline will really suck in readers.

Now where's my fifty bucks?

I was asked to review something just before
Christmas. I told the person asking that I
didn't really have much time but I would take
a quick look. Having seen what was on offer
I explained that it needed a lot more work
before I thought it would be ready to launch.

I was then asked for a testimonial "as if it was
finished". I replied that I wasn't willing to
endorse something that wasn't of a good
standard of quality. The person got all defensive
and told me I was just a time wasting freebie
seeker.

I pointed out that it was him that had contacted
me and I wouldn't be continuing the conversation.

John

[RevenueRabbi]

there is nothing wrong with giving away a product for "honest feedback".

if some people reply negatively, that is useful to improve the product.

the postive feedback would be called "testimonials".

as long as the feedback is honest and fair and people can SPEAK THEIR MIND and not merley say something "nice"..

whats wrong?

[Josh Anderson]

I was then asked for a testimonial "as if it was
finished". I replied that I wasn't willing to
endorse something that wasn't of a good
standard of quality. The person got all defensive
and told me I was just a time wasting freebie
seeker.

You know what's funny about that...

They were the time wasting freebie seeker.

They wanted you to invest your time and give them an "unearned" testimonial ;-)

[Jared Alberghini]

Josh,

I'm the 15'th poster, and I give you a great review!

Now you owe $750 total to everyone (minus your own replies) that gave you a good review on this post

Just like John Taylor said... Where's my $50 Bucks!!! LOL.

- Jared

[Josh Anderson]

False advertising ;-)

Oh, wait I put it in quotes... so it weren't me who dun said it!

[stephperez]

Personally, I like the real, candid, unsolicited testimonies...

Just my opinion...

But that is too funny - a testimony without buying the product...

[Jared Alberghini]

Originally Posted by BizBooks

there is nothing wrong with giving away a product for "honest feedback".

Very true BizBooks, but sadly, many people will give "dis-honest feedback" just to get a free product

- Jared

[Jared Alberghini]

Originally Posted by Josh Anderson

False advertising ;-)

Oh, wait I put it in quotes... so it weren't me who dun said it!

AAARRRGGG... you got us on a technicality... you "DID" put it in quotes... so you aren't accountable... dang it you are good Josh...

[Josh Anderson]

Anyone ever seen somone put up to something completely bumble it and reveal that they had been put up to it?

I want to see a testimonial like this:

"Wow ____ your 'How to Milk a Big EZ Cow Book' sounded like a winner and when you said you'd give it to me free for writing this testimonial... well that was an offer I could not refuse!"

But its got to be a video testimonial ;-)

[mmurtha]

Originally Posted by Jared Alberghini

AAARRRGGG... you got us on a technicality... you "DID" put it in quotes... so you aren't accountable... dang it you are good Josh...

Uhumm Jared,

You should have taken a screenshot of the subject line lol before he changed it.

[Jared Alberghini]

Originally Posted by mmurtha

Uhumm Jared,

You should have taken a screenshot of the subject line lol before he changed it.

Mary, you are so right... I missed my opportunity but I bet there is someone out there smart enough to have taken a screenshot and call out Josh on his guarantee that he would pay us $50 bucks each for our good reviews...

Josh... what do you have to say for yourself ... I think Mary just called you out on your scheme to not pay us for good reviews...

for those who aren't in the 'know'... </sarcasm>

- Jared

[Josh Anderson]

Originally Posted by mmurtha

Uhumm Jared,

You should have taken a screenshot of the subject line lol before he changed it.

lol... so should you since you were the one who saw it... you probably could have nailed me by sharing it with everyone too

I think I edited it twice and I added quotes only because I did not want anyone to think I was serious on second glance... only on first glance

But remember:

I want to see a testimonial like this:

Quote:
"Wow ____ your 'How to Milk a Big EZ Cow Book' sounded like a winner and when you said you'd give it to me free for writing this testimonial... well that was an offer I could not refuse!"
But its got to be a video testimonial ;-)

And you must be wearing a straw hat with a piece of hay sticking out of the corner of your mouth.

[John Taylor]

Originally Posted by uzomaeze

totally dissapointed

Hmm, wondering if the lack of smileys indicate
sincere disappointment?


John

[Jared Alberghini]

Originally Posted by John Taylor

Hmm, wondering if the lack of smileys indicate
sincere disappointment?


John

No John, the lack of smileys has nothing to do with it... it's the lack of sad faces that indicates total frustration:

- Jared

[BIG Mike]

Won't be long before we start pimping our signature space like that "Other" forum too, hehehehe.

[Jared Alberghini]

Originally Posted by BIG Mike

Won't be long before we start pimping our signature space like that "Other" forum too, hehehehe.

Sooo... how much are you thinking of charging for your sig space BIG Mike? I'm sure it's expensive... I'll start saving my pennies... just let me know when your first spot is available

- Jared

[Dave777]

Here's a few good reads from some well known entrepreneurs about testimonials! Some good advice to consider following...
Why Testimonials Do (and Don’t) Work | FutureNow's GrokDotCom / Marketing Optimization Blog
Sketchy testimonials
How do I know if testimonials on a Web site are legit? :: Free Tech Support from Ask Dave Taylor!

Dave

[KenStrong]

"The Testimonial Whores" would be a really great band name.

[Jared Alberghini]

Originally Posted by KenStrong

"The Testimonial Whores" would be a really great band name.

I got nothin' on that... I'm in total agreement with you Ken.

[Josh Anderson]

"The Testimonial Whores" would be a really great band name.

I bet some IM Pimp will register the domain name and let anyone who wants to become a testimonial whore sign up to get free products.

I'll bet most warriors trying to buy testimonials on the forum don't realize it but there are laws for endorsements and testimonials as well:

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/guides/endorse.htm

[KenStrong]

Originally Posted by Josh Anderson

I bet some IM Pimp will register the domain name and let anyone who wants to become a testimonial whore sign up to get free products.

Just checked... it's currently available if anyone wants it.

[Jim M]

Testimonials can come back and bite you

Don't forget - giving a testimonial is like putting your own name on a product

I remember a while back I was sent a email from someone I had bought stuff off a few times, and always had time to read his emails etc.

Then he sent an email with a great pitch for a new product - with his recommendation tagged on to the end....

I bought it - the product was rubbish - the back up service was rubbish - when I challenged the list owner he responded by admitting he hadn't taken the time to review it himself as he was busy.

Result - he lost his reputation, I unsubscribed from his list and he made no more sales in my direction for sure.

[Martin Luxton]

"Josh Anderson Crosses Over To The Dark Side?"

(Please note the quotes AND the question mark)

I don't do many reviews these days for several reasons

1. I have more knowledge of what's around now and I'm less easily impressed.

2. Time. When I get a review product I don't just write a review.
I proofread the pdf and make suggestions about how I think the product can be improved. A 50 page pdf can take me up to 4 hours.

3. Reputation. Not just the possibility of diluting my own reputation by testimonial whoring but the reputation of the OP. If it's somebody I don't know with a few dozen posts asking for testimonials for "The Automated Million Dollar System For Newbies", apart from the problematic title, I wouldn't be interested.

4. The last two reviews I did, I gave a critique but not a testimonial. I felt a bit bad about that so I want to avoid that kind of situation in the future.

Martin

[Richard Whyte]

All the talk here is about testimonials, but doesn't this same concept apply to almost everything in the IM world.

When we are looking for products to be an affiliate for, many people first look at what the commission rate is and the conversion rate.

They then proceed to market the thing and many times don't even use it.

They draw people in as they have yanked copy from some other site, used PLR articles posted on article sites. Basically gathering income from others work.

Am I wrong or isn't this just an extension of what you are talking about?

[John Taylor]

Originally Posted by Richard Whyte

All the talk here is about testimonials,

So let's keep it on topic then.

John

[BIG Mike]

Originally Posted by Martin Luxton

"Josh Anderson Crosses Over To The Dark Side?"

(Please note the quotes AND the question mark)

I don't do many reviews these days for several reasons

1. I have more knowledge of what's around now and I'm less easily impressed.

2. Time. When I get a review product I don't just write a review.
I proofread the pdf and make suggestions about how I think the product can be improved. A 50 page pdf can take me up to 4 hours.

3. Reputation. Not just the possibility of diluting my own reputation by testimonial whoring but the reputation of the OP. If it's somebody I don't know with a few dozen posts asking for testimonials for "The Automated Million Dollar System For Newbies", apart from the problematic title, I wouldn't be interested.

4. The last two reviews I did, I gave a critique but not a testimonial. I felt a bit bad about that so I want to avoid that kind of situation in the future.

Martin

4. The last two reviews I did, I gave a critique but not a testimonial. I felt a bit bad about that so I want to avoid that kind of situation in the future.

Same here...I rarely do them anymore and rarely give testimonials unless I actually know the person well, have seen and tried the product and am confident that I'm not going to mislead anyone buying because of what I say about it.

And I don't ever feel bad about critiquing a product in place of a testimonial..if the developer isn't thick skinned enough to take the criticism positively, oh well. I did this the other day, indirectly through a "middleman" (a student of mine), who asked me to review something he's thinking of JV'ing on with the developer.

The actual developer got very defensive and tossed a load of bull out about my comments, his experience, customer perception, yada, yada, yada. That doesn't change anything - the reason why the developer is trying to JV with my student is because he was unable to sell the original product himself successfully and is counting my students growing reputation to move it.

So I had long talk with my student last night about it - at this point in his career, he should not be pimping something of much lower quality than what he normally produces himself. He's going to lose a lot of the credibility he's built up with his customers by doing so. I hope he takes my advice on this one because it's a potential career breaker.

And for the newcomers to IM, as you start seeing some success and earn a nice little reputation for yourself, be careful about tossing out testimonials or even off-handed "Psuedo-Testimonials" simply to be nice. In the long run, you could be hurting yourself over it.

There's a WSO running right now that I was asked to review...it's utter crap. Yeah, that's only my opinion, but trust me on it - it's a crap product. And yet people buying it are leaving all these comments about how fantastic it is...I don't get it. Are they blind? Do they know what a quality product is or should be? Or are they afriad to just say it sucks and explain why? Go figure...

[Kim Standerline]

I wonder if we were approached by the same person John, because I said exactly the same thing

If I've wanted a couple of testimonials on something to start me off, I've always added something along the lines that I'd appreciate one if the person thinks it's worth it. And to be fair, I've had one refused on the odd occasion with some helpful hints (on which I acted) on why they couldn't give it.

Sometimes folks notice the same people giving testimonials over and over again, I wonder if they think it's an ok thing to do. (Certain names spring to mind)

Kim

Originally Posted by John Taylor

I think your thread Rocks Josh, it's one of
the most insightful threads I've read all day
and your headline will really suck in readers.

Now where's my fifty bucks?

I was asked to review something just before
Christmas. I told the person asking that I
didn't really have much time but I would take
a quick look. Having seen what was on offer
I explained that it needed a lot more work
before I thought it would be ready to launch.

I was then asked for a testimonial "as if it was
finished". I replied that I wasn't willing to
endorse something that wasn't of a good
standard of quality. The person got all defensive
and told me I was just a time wasting freebie
seeker.

I pointed out that it was him that had contacted
me and I wouldn't be continuing the conversation.

John

[BIG Mike]

I forgot to add the funny thing I've seen a few times now is they're listing prerequisites for it:

1. Must have a post count of over 500 and;

2. Must have been thanked a minimum of 10 times.

Sounds like Dufus Point to me, hehehehehe.

[Bev Clement]

I wonder how many people know what quality means, as I have reviewed many products which are rubbish, and yet everybody is saying how great they are. Everybody as in those who post on the WSO saying they are great.

[Eric Lorence]

Originally Posted by BIG Mike

I forgot to add the funny thing I've seen a few times now is they're listing prerequisites for it:

1. Must have a post count of over 500 and;

2. Must have been thanked a minimum of 10 times.

Sounds like Dufus Point to me, hehehehehe.

LOL... When they have only 30 or so posts themselves, and no thanks.

But they understand just how valuable the testimonial of a trusted member can be.

I for one will never buy a product on the testimonials of unknowns, they could be "fictional".

[ExRat]

Hi,

There is a way to turn this on it's head, if you have the balls.

Just have one testimonial box on your site, and in it, explain the situation.

Explain that the testimonial 'system' is totally flawed, and often, it simply alerts you to a group of marketers who give reciprocal testimonials to their colleagues (tell them how to check by cross-referencing the urls, plus using google to search forums).

Explain how testimonials are often procured by the lure of a free license too.

Then explain to your prospects that this is why you refuse to use testimonials to promote your product, but if they would like to find unsolicited references off their own back, here's how - then show them exactly how to find the information -

Search google for my product or "my product", my product review, my product scam etc
Search google for my name or "my name" my name review, my name scam etc

Also, explain to them that -

a) after a while of doing this, they will notice that even good products/sellers, that have many great reviews, will also have negative comments - because due to the 'free speech' aspect of the internet, competition sometimes posts anonymous slurs, plus many customers scream 'scam' because they didn't follow instructions. Then finish this by mentioning that you still don't think that they will find any negative reviews.

b) even if they find positive reviews of other peoples' products (or yours, if applicable) if the person is using an affiliate link (IE being paid) then that review could be biased.

.........

It's the same concept as offering a free trial, or an 'I'll pay you double back if you're not satisfied' guarantee.

Differentiation, perceived honesty, and helping prospects by educating them.

When a deceptive tide is flowing one way and increasing cynicism, go totally against it by putting your neck on the line and you might just attract positive attention.

Obviously, if the internet is over-flowing with negative publicity about you already, this might not be the best plan.

Sidenote - I have a list of peoples' names stored in my head, whos testimonials actually make me wary of buying a product - because their testimonials are obviously deceptive, or because they have sold me a lemon in the past etc.

I also take note of the testimonial whores making their requests on the forum, and the testimonial whores who respond to them. Clarification - asking for them or giving them doesn't make you a whore. It's the manner in which you do it.

[Louis Raven]

LMFAO

Anyhoo, I've gave a few testimonials for a free version of a product I needed or would want from great people like Willie Crawford and Eric Louviere. I don't see anything wrong with it?

Of course, giving a testimonial just for a free product is kind of whoring it a bit but we all know testimonials make more sales so asking for them in exchange for a free license/copy or whatever isn't that bad in my eyes.

Don't get my words twisted with asking for a good testimonial . That is kinda "off".

lol I got an email from a guru the other day stating his business is changing and they will no longer be endorsing anything that doesn't meet their spec. They then went on to promote Arbitrage-Conspiracy Great product.. who knows? Either way the press for it hasn't been the best so it made me laugh a bit.

I also stay away from rehashed garbage made to look unique because of a pricey membership script attached. That's made a few of us laugh over Twitter DM's.

Great thread Josh,

Louis

[ExRat]

Hi Louis,

they will no longer be endorsing anything that doesn't meet their spec. They then went on to promote Arbitrage-Conspiracy

Triple whammy - confirming that they previously endorsed stuff that didn't meet their spec, confirming that they're still endorsing the latest sucker-fodder, and confirming that you can't be sure of their honesty.

we all know testimonials make more sales

Hmmm.

[persistence]

Amazing! One headline like that has gathered so much interest.

[ExRat]

Hi persistence,

Amazing! One headline like that has gathered so much interest.

Ahem. Bear in mind that some of us noticed all of the testimonial request threads, saw Josh's name and the title and knew exactly what the thread would be about.

[Louis Raven]

Originally Posted by ExRat

Hi Louis,
Hmmm.

OK bad choice of words.. "We all know seeing other people like our selves use the product to do what it describes helps us with our buying decision"

[Paul Buckley]

Originally Posted by BIG Mike

Won't be long before we start pimping our signature space like that "Other" forum too, hehehehe.

There's another forum? :O

[Lance K]

Right on, Josh. I posted pretty much the same thing a little earlier.

Soliciting Testimonials vs. Review Copies...They Are NOT The Same Thing

I just focused on those asking for the testimonials and forgot to use a thread title that would attract said testimonial whores.

Glad somebody got their attention. Well done.

[Lance K]

Originally Posted by John Taylor

I was asked to review something just before
Christmas. I told the person asking that I
didn't really have much time but I would take
a quick look. Having seen what was on offer
I explained that it needed a lot more work
before I thought it would be ready to launch.

I was then asked for a testimonial "as if it was
finished". I replied that I wasn't willing to
endorse something that wasn't of a good
standard of quality. The person got all defensive
and told me I was just a time wasting freebie
seeker.

John, if you're talking about the guy who posted the exact same thing last night, then I too reviewed his product just before Christmas. And told him pretty much the same thing as you. Only, I never heard back from him.

[MaskedMarketer]

its all too common for people to get paid for testimonials. its rumored even the big names do it.

Anyways, you can try out this new testimonial generator in the mean time. Its just as ethical

http://www.resourceseo.com/testm.php