Angie, Kyle's right. You can get references from anybody who knows you and likes you. They just need to vouch for your credibility and professionalism.

If your prospect is dead-set on a "copywriting reference" then you didn't do enough to build your perceived value. IMHO.

I say this because the ONE time I was asked for a testimonial, it was for a client in Japan. We handled everything through email and he needed a little extra assurance. Very understandable.

Everyone else, I've closed over the phone. I've always tried to bring a lot of value to the phone call and demonstrate I knew what I was talking about... even before I'd written anything that actually worked.

And you know what? They didn't bat an eye. They assumed I was the professional I tried to portray.

It's really all about positioning. I never lied or mislead. I merely highlighted my strengths and diminished my inexperience.

I got a bit long-winded but I hope that helps. If he insists on results testimonials, just be honest and tell him you don't have any yet... but you will after you finish his project!