Testimonial Request Sequence for Etsy Sellers Email Guide
Why Testimonial Request Sequence Emails Fail for Etsy Sellers (And How to Fix Them)
You poured hours into that custom order. The client loved it.
They even sent a glowing message. Then you forget to ask for a review, and that valuable social proof vanishes.
Many Etsy shoppers rely heavily on reviews and testimonials before making a purchase. Imagine a potential customer landing on your shop, seeing dozens of heartfelt reviews, and instantly feeling confident in their decision.
That's the power of social proof. It's not just about getting more stars; it's about building trust, increasing visibility, and ultimately, driving more sales for your unique creations.
The key is to ask strategically, politely, and at the right time. Below, you'll find battle-tested email templates designed to help you gather those glowing testimonials without feeling pushy or awkward.
The Complete 3-Email Testimonial Request Sequence for Etsy Sellers
As an etsy seller, 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 [product name or type of item] from my shop. I truly hope it’s bringing you a lot of joy or serving its purpose well!
I always love hearing how my creations fit into your life or help your business. Is there anything at all you’d like to share about your experience so far?
Your feedback helps me improve and continue creating items you'll love. No pressure at all, just a friendly check-in to ensure everything is perfect.
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the psychological principle of reciprocity. By first showing genuine care for their experience, you make them more inclined to offer something in return later. It's a low-pressure way to open a dialogue and gauge satisfaction before making a direct request for a testimonial.
The Request
Ask for a testimonial with specific, easy prompts
Hi [First Name],
I'm so glad you enjoyed your [product name/type of item]! Your kind words mean the world to a small business like mine on Etsy.
Would you be willing to share a quick testimonial about your experience? It would genuinely help other shoppers feel confident and excited about choosing my shop.
Here are a few questions to make it easy: 1. What did you love most about your [product name/type of item]? 2.
How has it made a difference for you or your space? 3. Would you recommend my shop to a friend, and why?
You can simply reply to this email with your thoughts, or click here to leave a review directly on Etsy: [LINK TO ETSY REVIEW] Thank you so much for your support and for helping my small business grow!
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the 'foot-in-the-door' technique. By first asking for a small favor (a moment of their time), you increase the likelihood they'll comply with the larger request (writing a testimonial). Providing specific prompts reduces 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],
I know how busy life can get, so I wanted to gently follow up on my previous email about sharing your experience with your [product name/type of item]. No worries at all if it slipped your mind! Your honest feedback is truly valuable, and it helps my shop grow and reach new customers who are looking for unique items like yours. If you have a spare minute, a quick reply to this email or a review on Etsy would be wonderful: [LINK TO ETSY REVIEW] Thank you again for considering and for being such a wonderful customer!
Best, [YOUR NAME]
This email uses the 'mere-exposure effect' and avoids 'guilt-tripping'. By reappearing in their inbox without pressure, you keep the request top-of-mind without causing annoyance. The framing as 'no worries if it slipped your mind' removes any perceived obligation, making them more likely to respond positively when they do have time.
4 Testimonial Request Sequence Mistakes Etsy Sellers Make
| Don't Do This | Do This Instead |
|---|---|
✕ Never asking for a testimonial, assuming customers will always remember. | Implement a simple, consistent system to ask for reviews after every successful order. |
✕ Asking for a testimonial only once and then giving up. | Use a short, polite sequence of 2-3 emails to gently remind customers. |
✕ Making it difficult for customers to leave a testimonial or review. | Provide clear instructions, direct links to your Etsy review page, and easy prompts. |
✕ Asking too generally, like 'Please leave a review.' | Offer specific, open-ended questions to guide their feedback and elicit richer responses. |
Testimonial Request Sequence Timing Guide for Etsy Sellers
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 Etsy Seller Specialty
Adapt these templates for your specific industry.
Handmade Sellers
- Prompt customers to describe the craftsmanship, unique story, or personal touch that made their item special.
- Suggest they share how the handmade item adds warmth or personality to their home or gift recipient.
- Encourage photos of the item in use, emphasizing the care and detail involved in creation.
Vintage Sellers
- Ask buyers to comment on the item's history, rarity, or how it adds character and charm to their collection.
- Suggest they describe the condition of the vintage piece and how it exceeded their expectations.
- Prompt them to share how the item fits into their aesthetic or helps them achieve a specific look.
Digital Download Sellers
- Encourage feedback on the convenience, immediate access, and ease of use of the digital product.
- Ask customers to share how the download helped them solve a problem or achieve a specific goal.
- Suggest they describe the clarity of instructions or the quality of the design for printables/templates.
Print-on-Demand Sellers
- Prompt customers to describe the quality of the print, the comfort of the apparel, or the vibrancy of the design.
- Ask them to share how the customized item reflects their personality or makes a great gift.
- Suggest they comment on the ease of the ordering process and the accuracy of the final product.
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