The Power of Testimonials: How to build trust and credibility
In the competitive world of health and safety contracting, standing out is essential. Testimonials and references are among the most effective ways to establish your credibility, showcase your expertise, and build trust with potential employers or clients. Whether you're an experienced Health and Safety contractor or transitioning from a permanent role, using testimonials effectively can give you a significant advantage, when securing your next assignment.
Why testimonials are essential
Testimonials act as proof of your skills and reliability. They validate your ability to deliver results and offer reassurance to potential clients or employers who may not know you personally. A glowing reference from a past project, for instance, can highlight your professionalism, adaptability, and ability to succeed in demanding roles.
Consider this example: "John demonstrated exceptional knowledge of CDM regulations during our £10m construction project, ensuring compliance and improving safety standards across the board." This simple statement provides tangible evidence of expertise, project impact, and reliability.
How to request testimonials
The best time to ask for a testimonial is at the end of a successful assignment. As you wrap up your work, approach the client or line manager with a polite request for feedback. For instance, you could say:
"It’s been great working with you on this project. If you’re happy with my contribution, would you be willing to provide a short testimonial? It would be a big help as I look for future opportunities."
Make it easy for the person to respond by suggesting they focus on specific outcomes, such as improved safety metrics, successful compliance audits, or reduced incident rates. Clear and specific feedback adds value and makes your testimonials stand out.
Making the most of testimonials
Once you’ve collected testimonials, they should be strategically incorporated into your CV or collated on a document for ease of sharing. Include one or two key quotes, especially under relevant roles or in a dedicated section. LinkedIn is another excellent platform for showcasing testimonials. Recommendations on your profile not only add credibility but also increase visibility when potential clients or employers are searching for someone with your skills.
You can also reference testimonials in job applications and interviews. For example, if a past client praised your ability to manage behavioural safety programmes, mention it to highlight your strengths. Testimonials become a powerful tool when they’re actively used, rather than stored away.
Best practices for testimonials
Keep your testimonials professional and relevant. Focus on feedback from credible sources, such as previous clients, hiring managers, or senior leaders you have worked with. Always ask for permission before sharing their comments, and regularly update your collection to ensure it aligns with your most recent roles and accomplishments.
How Irwin and Colton can support you
At Irwin and Colton, we know how important testimonials are in building a contractor’s reputation. We encourage our candidates to showcase their success stories and can guide you on how to present them effectively.
If you’re looking for new opportunities or need support in strengthening your profile, reach out we’re here to help you succeed.