Testimonial Request Sequence for Authors Email Guide
Why Testimonial Request Sequence Emails Fail for Authors (And How to Fix Them)
Your next book launch is approaching, and your advance reader copies have been out for weeks. But your inbox is silent.
Many authors struggle to gather compelling social proof that truly resonates with potential readers. It's not for lack of appreciative readers, but often a lack of a clear, easy path for them to share their enthusiasm.
A well-crafted testimonial sequence doesn't just ask for feedback; it guides your most passionate readers to articulate *why* your book matters. It transforms casual readers into enthusiastic advocates, providing the authentic endorsements that catch eyes and open wallets.
The templates below are designed to make testimonial collection effortless, helping you build a powerful arsenal of praise for your next marketing push.
The Complete 3-Email Testimonial Request Sequence for Authors
As an author, your clients trust your recommendations. This 3-email sequence helps you introduce valuable tools without sounding like a salesperson.
The Check-in
Ask how things are going and gauge satisfaction
Hi [First Name],
It's been a little while since you received [YOUR BOOK TITLE] (or finished reading it, if you're like me and devour books in one sitting!). I'm always eager to hear what readers think, and I was wondering how your experience with the book has been so far.
Did anything particularly resonate with you? Was there a character you loved (or loved to hate), or an idea that shifted your perspective?
No pressure at all, just a genuine curiosity from one reader to another. Your honest thoughts are invaluable to me as I continue to write.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the psychological principle of reciprocity. By genuinely asking for their thoughts without an immediate request, you build rapport and make the reader feel valued. This soft approach increases the likelihood they'll open future emails and be more receptive to a later request.
The Request
Ask for a testimonial with specific, easy prompts
Hi [First Name],
Based on your feedback (or simply because I know you're a discerning reader!), I thought you might be open to a small favor. Authentic testimonials are incredibly powerful for authors, helping new readers discover books they'll love.
Would you be willing to share a short testimonial about your experience with [YOUR BOOK TITLE]? To make it easy, here are a few questions you could answer: • What did you enjoy most about [YOUR BOOK TITLE]? • How did reading it make you feel (e.g., inspired, entertained, challenged)? • Who would you recommend this book to, and why?
You can simply reply to this email with your thoughts. A couple of sentences is perfect, but feel free to write more if you're inspired!
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the 'foot-in-the-door' technique. By first asking for a small commitment (their opinion in the previous email or simply their attention), they are more likely to agree to a slightly larger request (a testimonial). The specific prompts reduce cognitive load, making the task feel less daunting and increasing completion rates.
The Gentle Nudge
Follow up with those who have not responded
Hi [First Name],
Just a quick follow-up on my previous email about [YOUR BOOK TITLE] and the possibility of a testimonial. I know how busy life can get, but your insights truly make a difference for other readers trying to decide on their next book.
If you still have a moment, those simple prompts are a great starting point: • What stood out to you? • How did it resonate? • Who would benefit from reading it? No worries at all if it's not the right time, but if you're able to share your thoughts, I'd be incredibly grateful.
Just hit reply!
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email utilizes the principle of consistency. Having opened and possibly considered the previous request, the reader is more likely to act on this gentle reminder to maintain internal consistency. It also reduces pressure while reiterating the value, making it easier for them to complete the task they may have intended to do.
4 Testimonial Request Sequence Mistakes Authors Make
| Don't Do This | Do This Instead |
|---|---|
✕ Sending a generic, mass email asking for testimonials to everyone on their list, regardless of their engagement or satisfaction. | Personalize requests based on known engagement (e.g., ARC readers, those who've interacted positively) or previously gauged satisfaction. |
✕ Asking for a testimonial without providing any guidance, prompts, or examples of what makes a good review. | Offer specific questions or sentence starters to make it easy for readers to articulate their thoughts and reduce the cognitive load. |
✕ Waiting months after a reader finishes a book to ask for feedback, by which time the experience might not be fresh in their mind. | Time your requests when the book is fresh in their minds, perhaps a few weeks after purchase or after an advance reader copy (ARC) distribution. |
✕ Not explaining *why* testimonials are important for an author, making the request seem like a one-sided favor. | Briefly explain how their words help other readers discover the book, influence purchasing decisions, and genuinely support your author journey. |
Testimonial Request Sequence Timing Guide for Authors
When you send matters as much as what you send.
The Check-in
Ask how things are going and gauge satisfaction
The Request
Ask for a testimonial with specific, easy prompts
The Gentle Nudge
Follow up with those who have not responded
Send after a win, project completion, or positive feedback.
Customize Testimonial Request Sequence for Your Author Specialty
Adapt these templates for your specific industry.
Fiction Authors
- Focus on character impact, plot twists, and emotional resonance in your testimonial prompts.
- Suggest readers mention their favorite quote or a moment that surprised them.
- Encourage sharing how the book made them *feel*, e.g., 'I couldn't put it down!' or 'I cried happy tears.'
Non-Fiction Authors
- Ask how the book helped them solve a problem, gain a new understanding, or change their perspective.
- Prompt for specific takeaways or practical advice they implemented from the book.
- Suggest they highlight a key insight or a 'lightbulb moment' they experienced while reading.
Self-Published Authors
- Emphasize the direct impact their testimonial has on helping independent authors gain visibility and reach a wider audience.
- Provide clear, step-by-step instructions on *where* to post the testimonial (e.g., Amazon, Goodreads, your author website).
- Consider offering a small, valuable bonus (like a short story, exclusive chapter, or behind-the-scenes content) for those who provide a testimonial.
Traditionally Published Authors
- Remind readers that publisher teams often use early testimonials for marketing materials, blurbs, and awards submissions.
- Focus on the book's broader themes, originality, and literary merit in your prompts.
- Suggest they mention if the book reminded them of other acclaimed works or authors, positioning it within a literary context.
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