Today I want to dive into the art of writing engaging survey and feedback request emails.
I say "art" because after writing numerous emails in different tones and styles, I finally understood that simple is good and it must, must, must be of benefit to your subscriber to respond.
Sounds like it must be written like sales copy, right?
Glad you caught that 😜
First, why do surveys and feedback matter?
I know...that you know...I just think it must be said: they're goldmines for valuable insights. They help you understand your audience’s needs, improve your products or services, and build stronger relationships with your customers.
So the question is - how do you get people excited about sharing their thoughts?
Well, besides outright bribing them with coupons, discount codes, gift cards, and gifts...these do work, by the way...
A few tips or writing fun and engaging survey/feedback emails...just for you:
Catchy Subject Line
Do.Not.Use. "Survey Link Enclosed." Please. Use a curiosity based subject line (I talked about those in this post). Think “We Need Your Genius!” or “Help Us Make Your Experience Even Better!”
Personal Touch
Use their name! It can help to make them feel special. This type of personalization is a great start, so don't make it the only personalization technique you use.
Reference Their Last Order
Yep, another way to use personalization.
Keep It Short and Sweet
Respect their time. Make sure your email is concise and to the point.
Inject Humor
A light-hearted tone can make your request more appealing. A funny joke or a playful comment can do wonders to keep them interested.
Explain Why
Tell them … or show them … how their feedback will make a difference. People love to know they’re contributing to something meaningful.
Offer an Incentive
Yeah, I wasn't kidding when I said bribes work. Sweeten the deal with a small reward...like a discount code, a chance to win a prize, or exclusive access to content.
Clear Call to Action (CTA)
Make it easy for them to take action. Use a bright, bold button with text like “Share Your Thoughts” or “Take Our Fun Survey!”
And, of course, you want to see an example of this, right?
Sigh - okay - the brand name has been changed.
Fresh Chews, a subscription box service, was struggling to get customers to complete their feedback surveys. They decided to revamp their approach with a fun and engaging email strategy.
Before: Their emails were plain and formal, resulting in low response rates.
After: They used a catchy subject line, playful humor, and a small incentive. The response rate increased by 40%! Here’s their winning email:
Subject Line: “Help Us Improve & Win a Free Box of Goodies!”
Email Body:
Hi [FirstName]!
We hope you’re enjoying your [Month] subscription box! 🎁
You know we're always looking to improve - to make our service even better - and we need your genius to do it.
Could you spare 2 minutes to share your thoughts?
We promise it’ll be quick and painless! Plus, you’ll be entered to win a free box of goodies!
[Share Your Genius With Us] <<button
Thanks for being awesome!
Cheers,
The FreshChew Team
What do you think? I think it's soooo much better than this:
Subject Line: Your Feedback Matters
Hi [FirstName],
We strive to improve our service on a daily basis.
You've been a customer for quite some time. So we'd love to hear your thoughts on how we could improve.
Click here to complete a survey.
Thanks so much!
The FreshCrew Team
Okay, that’s it for now. Go forth and get responses for your surveys!
I'm curious - have you changed how you write your emails?
Or...is what I'm sending you confirmation that you're doing things right?
Or is it completely useless info?
I want feedback! Yes, I really do. It would be awesome if you would Comment and let me know. Thanks!
Talk soon -
Charlene Burke
Let's Connect