We all look for a little proof before we buy something. A friend’s recommendation, a real user story, or even a before-and-after photo can make all the difference. That’s why testimonial advertising works so well: it shows real experiences, builds trust, and nudges people to act.

In this article, we’ll dive into 12 standout testimonial advertising examples. You’ll see a mix of video stories, social posts, and text-based case studies. We’ll break down why each ad works and what you can take from it to make your own campaigns more persuasive.

By the end, you’ll know how to apply these ideas, plus how tools like Holo can help you create professional testimonial ads fast.

What is testimonial advertising?

As its name suggests, a testimonial advertising is a strategy where an ad uses real customers or users reviews (or testimonials). Plenty of brands still use it to this day simply because it works.

People like it when they see social proof, or at the very least, see other people use the product they have their eyes on. It provides trust and reassurance, and both of these things really help make a sale.

There are a few testimonial advertising formats that you can use:

• Text-based content. We’d say it’s the most versatile type, where almost any industry can use and add to their sites or product pages.

• Image or other visual-based content. The most common type is a before-and-after type of images that proof real results. It works best for cosmetics, skincare, and health products.

• Video content. We believe videos can give users a more solid testimonial since they feel more genuine. Basically, you see real people talk about their own experiences with the product. This format is best for social media and landing pages.

Now, let’s go through some of the best testimonial advertising we’ve come across.

1. Road Runner Sports

Road Runner Sports features real runners talking about their shoes and gear. One of the ads show a senior citizen finding their perfect shoes. In the ad, you’ll see their struggles and how Road Runner Sports cater to the problem by customizing the right pair for the customer.

They also show practical usage: how shoes fit, cushion impact, and perform in real life. This makes the product relatable and the benefits easy to understand.

Why it works:

• This advertising technique shows real people and real use cases.

• Highlights tangible product benefits in context.

• Builds credibility by focusing on authentic experiences.

• Uses storytelling to connect with the audience emotionally.

By putting customers at the center of the story, Road Runner Sports shows how the product genuinely improves lives. The combination of visual proof and personal experience makes viewers imagine themselves achieving similar results.

2. Hostinger

Hostinger shares customer stories of building websites, from initial frustration to launching a finished site. The testimonial advertising is in a video format, illustrating the customer journey, making the process feel achievable and approachable.

The ads focus on transformation: starting from a problem and showing the solution in a way that feels simple. They also include subtle humor and relatability, making tech feel accessible.

Why it works:

• Demonstrates the product solving a real problem.

• Shows transformation, not just features.

• Builds trust through relatable, authentic experiences.

• Visual storytelling makes complex tools approachable.

By showing the step-by-step process, Hostinger helps potential users picture themselves succeeding. The ads are educational yet persuasive, highlighting how the product makes an intimidating task manageable. Real results and relatability motivate viewers to take action.

3. Loop Earplugs

Loop Earplugs’ ads put customers in noisy environments: concerts, airports, or busy streets. One testimonial advertising they have is by Dr. Matt Walker, a sleep expert. Highlighting an expert endorsement is a smart move, especially since Loop has a single product focused on improving sleep quality.

The advertisement is visual and practical, yet presented in a casual, interview-like format. You see the problem and the doctor’s explanation of the product, which strengthens credibility. Lifestyle storytelling makes the product feel essential rather than optional.

Why it works:

• Shows product benefits in relatable scenarios.

• Combines visual proof with authentic stories.

• Partnership with a trusted brand adds authority.

• Highlights tangible results through lifestyle demonstration.

Loop makes the experience understandable and aspirational at the same time. Plus, it’s a strong reminder that showing outcomes is more persuasive than simply describing features.

4. E.L.F Cosmetics

E.L.F Cosmetics features real people sharing honest experiences with their products. Their testimonial advertising shows everyday users talking about makeup looks, product performance, and results.

The brand also shares community photos, like selfies and tutorials, to show real people using E.L.F products.

Why it works:

• Uses authentic voices rather than actors or models, making it more genuine.

• Combines testimonials with user-generated content for social proof.

• Builds community while showing real results.

• Makes the product relatable and accessible.

Featuring real customers helps make your ads more persuasive. Encourage your audience to share their experiences and integrate those stories into campaigns. Showing your product in real-life situations helps others imagine using it themselves and builds trust.

5. ClickUp

ClickUp shares customer stories in video format, showing how real teams use their platform to manage projects, save time, and stay organized. These testimonial ads feature actual users explaining their challenges and how ClickUp solves them.

This works because it demonstrates the product in action. Viewers see real people, real problems, and real results. The storytelling feels authentic and relatable, which makes the brand trustworthy and approachable.

Why it works:

• Shows actual users solving real problems.

• Demonstrates product benefits clearly through storytelling.

• Builds credibility with authentic customer voices.

• Makes complex software feel approachable and practical.

Including genuine customer stories in your ads helps prospects see how your product fits into real life. Video testimonials can show emotion, process, and results in a way that text alone cannot.

You can also focus on authentic problems and solutions to make relatable, persuasive ads.

6. Monday.com

Monday.com features customer testimonials on their website in a text-based format. Users share their experiences managing projects, collaborating with teams, and achieving results using the platform.

This works because short, clear testimonials build credibility quickly. Potential customers see real people solving real problems, which makes the brand trustworthy without needing flashy visuals.

Why it works:

• Uses authentic customer experiences to build trust.

• Text format is easy to digest and share.

• Highlights specific benefits that resonate with the audience.

• Shows the product’s real-world impact without overcomplicating the message.

Including text-based testimonials in your ads or website helps showcase your product’s value clearly. Focus on real results, specific benefits, and relatable experiences to make your audience feel confident choosing your product.

7. Canva

Canva’s customer case studies page highlights real people using its tools to grow their businesses and simplify design. Each story follows a clear arc: what problem they faced, how Canva helped, and the results they achieved.

These stories work because they show real impact. Instead of saying “Canva makes design easy,” they prove it through real examples or brands creating faster, teams collaborating better, and individuals launching projects that once felt impossible.

Why it works:

• Turns customer success into clear, relatable stories.

• Builds trust through real results instead of claims.

• Shows how Canva fits different industries and goals.

• Keeps the tone simple, human, and positive.

When you share testimonials, don’t just quote what customers say and instead show what they achieve. A story about transformation makes your message stronger than a list of features ever could.

8. Printify

Printify’s success stories page shares full-length blog posts about real sellers building their print-on-demand businesses.

Each story walks through their journey, from starting out, learning the ropes, to reaching consistent sales. It’s text-based testimonial advertising that feels like a personal interview.

The format works because it’s detailed and transparent. You see what tools they used, what mistakes they made, and how Printify helped them scale. Instead of quick sound bites, these stories give depth and credibility, showing the real people behind the numbers.

Why it works:

• Long-form storytelling builds authenticity and trust.

• Gives practical insights readers can apply.

• Highlights Printify’s value through customer success, not brand claims.

• Makes each story relatable by showing the human side of entrepreneurship.

Turn your testimonials into stories that teach. Share the real journey, not just the results. When people see the full picture, they believe the outcome, your product, and more.

9. Glossier

Glossier’s Instagram is packed with real product reviews from everyday users. Instead of glossy, studio-shot ads, they repost videos and photos of people applying their products in real life.

It works because it’s authentic and relatable. Audiences can see how products look on different skin tones and in different lighting, which builds trust. The user-generated nature of the content also creates a strong sense of community and people want to be part of it.

Why it works:

• Real users make the brand feel accessible and inclusive.

• Consistent reposting encourages more customers to share their looks.

• Natural visuals perform better on social media algorithms.

• Creates social proof by showing a product people genuinely love to use.

Feature your real customers whenever you can. Show how your product fits into their daily lives instead of over-polishing it. The more genuine your visuals feel, the easier it is for people to picture themselves using what you sell.

10. Noom

Noom’s reviews page highlights stories from users who’ve achieved real, lasting results with the app. Each testimonial focuses on personal growth rather than just numbers on a scale. 

You’ll see people talking about building better habits, improving their mindset, and finding confidence again. It feels human, honest, and deeply motivating, like hearing a friend share their success story.

It works because the focus is on transformation, not just outcomes. Noom knows its audience cares about lifestyle change more than a quick fix, and every testimonial reinforces that message.

Why it works:

• Focuses on emotional and behavioral transformation, not only physical results.

• Includes detailed, authentic user stories that make the results believable.

• Builds long-term trust by positioning Noom as a partner in change.

• Uses consistent, positive messaging that aligns with the brand’s mission.

When writing testimonials, highlight more than just results. Let customers share what changed in their mindset or lifestyle. People connect with stories that feel human, not transactional.

How to create effective testimonial ads

The best testimonial ads feel real. You don’t need fancy effects or big budgets, just real stories told in the right way. Let’s look at what makes testimonial advertising work and how to create one for you.

Story and format

Stories make people care. A good testimonial doesn’t just say, “This product works.” It shows how life changed after using it. Maybe it’s a customer finding confidence again, a business saving hours every week, or someone finally solving a daily problem.

Storytelling gives context and emotion to the facts. It also brings your product advertising to a deeper, more genuine space for your customers.

Holo helps bring these stories to life by giving you flexible ad templates built for storytelling. You can turn customer quotes, short clips, or even case study highlights into scroll-stopping ads in minutes. Keep the story short, emotional, and focused on the transformation.

Platform choice

Where you post matters as much as what you post. A heartfelt two-minute video might shine on YouTube but feel too long for TikTok. On Instagram, real photos or Reels with captions work best.

Match your testimonial format to the platform’s content culture. For example, a behind-the-scenes story fits naturally on Instagram Stories, while a punchy quote video works well on LinkedIn. Know how your audience scrolls, and meet them there.

Your customers

The right people make your ad believable. Choose customers who reflect your target audience’s real experiences, struggles, and goals. Authenticity beats perfection every time. When viewers see someone like them sharing an honest story, they trust it.

Diversity matters too. Featuring different voices helps more people connect with your brand. It shows that your product or service really works for many kinds of people, not just one type of customer.

Influencers collaboration

Working with the right influencers can amplify your message without feeling forced. Micro-influencers and creators who already love your product often perform better than big names because their audiences trust them more.

When influencers share real experiences instead of scripted lines, their followers listen. Encourage them to tell their story in their own words. That’s where the power of testimonial advertising really shines.

Proof and call to action

Every strong testimonial ad combines emotion with evidence. Data, visuals, or transformation stories help back up the claim. A before-and-after image, a progress chart, or a simple stat like “97% of users saw results in two weeks” turns belief into action.

End your ad with a clear, natural call to action. It could be as simple as “Start your free trial,” “See how it works,” or “Join thousands who already switched.” The key is to keep it seamless like the next logical step, not a sales pitch.

Conclusions

Testimonial advertising works because people trust people. Real stories stand out from polished marketing.

They feel honest, relatable, and human. Whether it is a short video, a customer quote, or a transformation story, testimonials turn proof into emotion and show that your product truly works.

The best testimonial ads mix storytelling, the right platform, and authentic voices. Keep it simple, visual, and real. Let your customers do the talking while you guide the story toward action.

Ready to make testimonial ads that convert? Try Holo. It helps you turn real customer stories into ads that build trust and drive results fast.