How to gain testimonials that truly demonstrate research impact

A well-crafted testimonial not only validates the importance of a research project but also plays a vital role in illustrating the outcomes and changes that have occurred as a result. But how can you ensure that testimonials go beyond surface-level praise and dive deep into the real-world impacts that matter for evaluations like the REF? In this blog, Dr Kerry Leslie, WCL Associate sets out why it’s often better for an independent expert to take the lead.

Why an independent interviewer is essential for research impact testimonials

One question I’m often asked is whether academics should interview stakeholders themselves. While it’s tempting for researchers to do this directly, there are several reasons why having an independent consultant conduct the interviews yields better results:

• Probing without awkwardness: Academics may hesitate to push too hard for details, particularly if the stakeholder is a key collaborator or funder. An independent interviewer can ask more probing and potentially challenging questions without it feeling uncomfortable for the stakeholder. They can explore areas such as what changes have occurred, whether policies or practices have shifted, and what measurable benefits have emerged.

• Planting ideas about impact: A consultant can nudge stakeholders to reflect on impacts they may not have initially considered. They can guide them to think beyond the immediate event or collaboration, and to identify longer-term changes or ripple effects that have emerged.

• Expertise in REF impact: A consultant highly experienced in REF impact case studies will be more attuned to the types of impacts that will carry weight. They instinctively know how to listen for and pick up on seemingly minor points in conversation—things an academic might overlook—that can be developed into compelling evidence of impact. Familiarity with REF guidelines and the broad scope of potential impacts (ranging from policy changes to community benefits) ensures that no important detail is missed.

• Crafting a cohesive narrative: When writing up the testimonial, it’s important to keep the narrative of the impact case study in mind. Ensuring that the stakeholder’s comments align with the broader story of the research’s influence allows for clear summaries of key impacts that can be quoted directly in the case study, providing strong evidence for the submission.

Going beyond the pathway to impact

One challenge with stakeholder testimonials written without guidance is that they often focus on the pathway to impact rather than the impact itself. These letters tend to describe the stakeholder’s attendance at an event or workshop and provide general positive feedback. While this is useful, it doesn’t go far enough.

For example, a stakeholder might write about participating in a conference and finding it insightful. However, the crucial question remains: What happened next? Did they change their organisation’s policies, update guidelines, or adopt new practices? These details are what really demonstrate the value of the research. 

Saving academics time and effort

Another major benefit of working with an engagement consultant is the time saved. Arranging interviews, conducting them, drafting testimonials, and chasing stakeholders for revisions and finalised versions on headed paper is a time-consuming process. Outsourcing this frees up researchers to focus on their academic work, while ensuring the testimonials meet the required standards for an impactful case study.

Using an independent can also reassure stakeholders about confidentiality and control over the final testimonial. Sharing a draft for review ensures they are comfortable with the content before signing off.

Building a strong case for impact

The ultimate goal of any interview is to ensure that testimonials clearly demonstrate the real-world changes that have occurred because of the research. Whether it’s a shift in organisational policies, the adoption of new practices, or measurable benefits for communities, these outcomes are the evidence needed to showcase research impact.

Gaining impactful testimonials requires more than just asking stakeholders to write a letter. It’s about exploring the nuances of their experience, identifying tangible outcomes, and crafting a narrative that aligns with the goals of the impact case study. An independent consultant can bring a fresh perspective, specialised expertise, and the ability to draw out the details that make a testimonial truly meaningful.

Dr Kerry Leslie is a WCL Associate and freelance engagement consultant who specialises in helping academics capture the full extent of their research impact through meaningful and detailed testimonials.

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