Make Your Testimonials Count: One Powerful Story Beats Many Forgettable Ones
In business networking, testimonials are gold because they prove results and build trust.
The catch? Most people try to do too much at once and end up being forgotten.
The mistake most people make
Members often cram several testimonials into one slot, thanking multiple people in quick succession.
It sounds generous, but it doesn’t work — the audience only remembers the last one.
Why we forget
Human memory favours the most recent item in a list — the recency effect.
When you stack stories, only the final message gets mental airtime.
How to make testimonials memorable
Share one testimonial at a time and make it count with a clear, outcome-driven story.
Give people something concrete they can remember and repeat.
What a great testimonial includes
- Specifics: Who was the client or scenario?
- Problem: What challenge did they face?
- Solution: What did your fellow member do?
- Result: What measurable or meaningful outcome followed?
Example: “I referred my client to Sarah from XYZ Accounting. She found a missed deduction that saved them $40,000. They now refer her to their network.”
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Multiple mini-testimonials in one slot
- Vague praise like “great service” without outcomes
- Skipping the written version after the meeting
Extend the impact
A strong testimonial boosts credibility inside the room and sparks referrals outside it.
Post a written version on LinkedIn, add it to your newsletter, or ask to feature it on a website.
Your next BNI challenge
At your next meeting, deliver one specific testimonial for one member.
Keep it clear, focused on results, and easy to retell.
Inspired by BNI Podcast Episode 800 — “Are You Wasting a Fantastic Testimonial?”