Client consent and participation
One of the more challenging aspects of creating a case study is overcoming client wariness towards releasing potentially sensitive information to the public. Although valid, you can ease your client’s concerns by outlining the case study process clearly from the get go and getting their nod of approval on each draft. Be sure to do what will make your client comfortable, which may include using percentages to illustrate ROI and lead generation growth rather than specific figures.
The cornerstones of a successful case study
Once you have client consent and participation in providing any relevant information, your case study will require the following three cornerstones:
- Context – Here you will elaborate on who your client is, the relevant trends, the scope of the project, and so on.
- Organize your story around your readers’ needs - While the client is providing you with information to use in your case study, you are addressing your readers whose needs are the backbone of your case study. All your information should be used to address your readers’ needs.
- Objectives – Here you will list ROI and lead generation percentages or other values to the solution you provided. Request that your client provide you information as to who they are and why they chose to work with you. This will help encourage prospective clients.
The essential format elements to a successful case study
For a case study to be successful, several format elements are essential including the following:
- An intriguing title- This should convey the answer to a need you know your readers have. The title should also contain a keyword which can be shared on social media with a hashtag.
- A lead quote or testimonial- It can be repeated or used several times throughout your case study.
- Summarize the problem- This can be used to empathize with your readers and illustrate that you understand their needs.
- Summarize the results- Use this to showcase how you successfully helped your client. This may include three to four benefit statements to explain the case study and appeal to the readers’ needs.
- About us paragraph- Write one regarding your company and contact information
- A call to action- This accompanies any good case study to encourage readers towards becoming new clients.
Make the most of the Internet
Once your case study has been published, share it on various social media platforms such as Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, etc. This will help create backlinks to your company website which may help push your site up on Google ranking and entice prospective clients your way!