---
name: client-transformation-story
description: "Writes client transformation narratives with before/after frameworks, timeline, and ethical presentation guidelines."
allowed-tools: Read Write Glob
metadata:
  author: matthewhitcham
  version: "1.0"
---

# Client Transformation Story

## When to Use This Skill

Use this skill when you need to:
- Write a client success story for marketing your wellness or coaching business
- Create before/after narratives that are compelling and ethical
- Structure transformation stories with timeline and measurable results
- Present client outcomes without making misleading claims

**DO NOT** use this skill for medical case studies, clinical research reports, or fabricated testimonials. This is for real client stories presented ethically for marketing purposes.

---

## Core Principle

A TRANSFORMATION STORY IS POWERFUL BECAUSE IT IS REAL — NEVER EXAGGERATE, FABRICATE, OR IMPLY THAT EVERY CLIENT WILL ACHIEVE THE SAME RESULTS. HONESTY IS YOUR BEST MARKETING.

---

## Phase 1: Story Inputs

### Required Inputs

| Input | What to Ask | Default |
|-------|------------|---------|
| **Client name** | "What is the client's name (or preferred pseudonym)?" | Use first name only |
| **Starting point** | "Where were they when they started — situation, struggles, goals?" | No default — must be provided |
| **Program/service used** | "What program or service did they go through?" | No default — must be provided |
| **Timeline** | "How long was the transformation — weeks, months?" | No default — must be provided |
| **Results** | "What specific, measurable outcomes did they achieve?" | No default — must be provided |
| **Client permission** | "Has the client given written consent to share their story?" | No default — MUST have consent |

**GATE: Confirm written client consent exists before writing any story. Do not proceed without it.**

---

## Phase 2: Story Framework

### Transformation Narrative Structure

```
## [Client Name]'s Story: [Headline Summarizing the Transformation]

### Where They Started
[2-3 sentences describing the client's situation before working with you.
Focus on the feelings and frustrations, not just the facts. What was
life like? What had they already tried?]

### The Turning Point
[1-2 sentences about what made them reach out or decide to take action.
What was the moment that changed everything?]

### The Journey
[3-4 sentences about what they did during the program. Highlight the
process — what was hard, what surprised them, what kept them going.
This section sells the experience of working with you.]

### The Results
[Specific, measurable outcomes. Include numbers where possible, but
also describe how they FEEL now. Results are both tangible and emotional.]

- [Measurable result 1]
- [Measurable result 2]
- [Emotional or lifestyle result]

### In Their Words
> "[Direct quote from the client about their experience and results]"
> — [Client name]

### Timeline
**Duration:** [X] weeks/months
**Program:** [Program name]
```

### Writing Rules

1. **Use the client's own language** — pull phrases from their feedback, reviews, or interviews
2. **Show the struggle** — transformation stories without difficulty feel fake
3. **Be specific about results** — "lost 20 pounds" beats "lost weight"
4. **Include the timeline** — results without context are misleading
5. **Let the client be the hero** — you provided the framework, they did the work

---

## Phase 3: Ethical Guidelines

### Required Disclosures

Every transformation story must include:

```
## Disclaimer

Results are individual and may vary. [Client name]'s experience reflects
their personal journey and commitment to [program name]. This testimonial
is not a guarantee of specific results for any individual.

[If applicable: [Client name] received [compensation/discount/free service]
in exchange for sharing their story.]

[If health/fitness: Consult with a healthcare professional before starting
any new fitness, nutrition, or wellness program.]
```

### Ethical Boundaries

| Do | Do Not |
|----|--------|
| Share real results with real timelines | Exaggerate or embellish outcomes |
| Include "results may vary" disclosure | Imply everyone will get the same results |
| Get written consent before publishing | Use a client's story without permission |
| Let the client review and approve the story | Publish without their final sign-off |
| Show the full picture — challenges included | Cherry-pick only the best parts |
| Disclose if the story was incentivized | Hide compensation or free services |

### Before/After Photos

If using photos:
- Same lighting, angle, and distance for honest comparison
- No photo editing that alters body shape or appearance
- Client-approved photos only
- Include timeline between photos
- Add "Results may vary" caption

---

## Phase 4: Content Formats

### Long-Form (Blog / Website)

Use the full narrative structure from Phase 2. Add a CTA at the end linking to the program or a consultation booking page.

### Social Media Version (150-200 words)

```
Meet [Client Name]. 👋

[X] months ago, [he/she/they] was [brief description of starting point].

Today? [Brief description of where they are now].

Here's what changed:
✓ [Result 1]
✓ [Result 2]
✓ [Result 3]

"[Short client quote]"

This is what's possible with [program name].

[CTA: Link in bio / DM me / Book a call]

*Results are individual and may vary.
```

### Video Testimonial Script

```
## Video Interview Questions

1. Tell us about yourself and what life looked like before you started.
2. What made you decide to try [program name]?
3. What was the experience like — any surprises or challenges?
4. What results have you seen?
5. What would you say to someone thinking about joining?
6. How has this changed your daily life?
```

### Story Checklist

- [ ] Client has given written consent to share their story
- [ ] All results are accurate and verifiable
- [ ] Timeline is clearly stated
- [ ] Disclaimer/disclosure is included
- [ ] Client has reviewed and approved the final version
- [ ] Story does not make medical claims
- [ ] Before/after photos (if used) are authentic and unedited
- [ ] CTA directs readers to learn about the program

---

## Anti-Patterns

- **Fabricating or exaggerating results** — this destroys trust and creates legal liability when discovered.
- **No consent** — publishing a client's story without written permission is an ethical and legal violation.
- **Implying guaranteed outcomes** — "You'll lose 20 pounds just like Sarah" is misleading. Always disclose that results vary.
- **All results, no story** — numbers without narrative do not connect emotionally. Tell the human story.
- **Only showing perfect outcomes** — including stories where the journey was challenging (but ultimately successful) builds more trust.
- **No disclaimer** — every transformation story needs a "results may vary" disclosure.

---

## Recovery

- **Client gives vague results:** Ask specific follow-up questions — "How much?" "How long?" "What can you do now that you couldn't before?"
- **Client is camera-shy for video:** Offer written testimonials, audio-only interviews, or anonymized stories as alternatives.
- **Client wants to revoke consent:** Remove their story immediately from all platforms. No questions asked.
- **Story feels too promotional:** Add more of the struggle and journey. Show the real, messy middle — not just the polished outcome.
- **No client stories yet:** Ask your next 3 clients if they would be willing to share their experience. Offer a discount or bonus in exchange.
