The Power of Feedback
Regardless of your business model as a niche marketer, you will have greater success when you receive feedback from people. This feedback can come in several forms. Here are a few things to consider.
1. You have to ask for it. True, there are times when people will make comments because they feel compelled to do so, but this is rare and will not give you enough feedback for real improvement. So, you simply have to ask people to voice concerns, suggest improvements and ask questions. Request feedback from the moment people are first exposed to your offer, all the way until they break the arrangement (such as unsubscribing or wanting a refund).
2. Negative feedback is better than …no feedback at all. And, in many ways, bad feedback is better than the goo kind. Why? Because this is where you get signals on what you can improve. Sure, you will get people who are having a bad day and take it out on you, but even then there may be some truth hidden in their vitriol. On the other hand, you may notice patterns in the messages you get; take note of these.
3. Use good feedback, too. While negative comments can help you improve weak areas in your business, good feedback reinforces what you are doing right. Again, if you spot patterns of good feedback, then be sure to highlight or ramp up that part of your business.
4. Don’t take it personal. Some people are afraid to ask for feedback because they are afraid of what others will say. After all, they have spent their time and money to get up and running. They are invested emotionally, as well. But, if you are afraid of your feelings getting hurt, then you will not go far. A simple way to handle this (besides getting a backbone) is to disconnect your emotions from the equation. Think that this is nothing more than business and that you now have a suggestion on how to do even better.
5. One comment does not a business make. Now, while you need to consider all of your feedback seriously, not all of it should be implemented. You still get to make the ultimate decision about what’s right for your business.
How you ask for feedback is less important than actually asking for it. Let people know you value their opinions. Just be sure to do your best to get those opinions from them – your success depends on it.
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