How to Give Clients Feedback They’ll Actually Appreciate
Feb 20, 2025
auto_awesome
Discover the delicate art of giving constructive feedback without alienating clients. Learn how to balance criticism with recognition to foster positive relationships. Effective communication techniques are highlighted, drawing a clever parallel to barbers for clarity. Simplifying complex ideas into tangible examples is emphasized to enhance understanding. Thoughtful feedback not only strengthens collaborations but sets you apart as a committed partner, rather than just another service provider.
Framing feedback as constructive suggestions rather than criticism fosters client trust and encourages them to embrace improvements.
Providing tangible examples of proposed changes enhances client understanding and increases the likelihood of implementing feedback effectively.
Deep dives
Effective Communication with Clients
Communicating with clients about their weaknesses requires a careful approach to avoid offense while highlighting areas for improvement. It is essential to frame feedback in a constructive manner, presenting it as an opportunity rather than a criticism. For example, rather than bluntly stating a client’s work is inadequate, one might suggest alternatives that could enhance their results. This technique creates a more receptive environment where the client feels supported rather than attacked.
Demonstrating Value Through Tangibility
Providing tangible examples can significantly enhance a client's understanding of proposed improvements. Instead of merely suggesting that a client simplify their long-form content, one can create a condensed version of that content as a demonstration of possibilities. This approach not only illustrates the potential benefits but also showcases the advisor's dedication and effort, making the client more likely to engage. By translating abstract ideas into concrete examples, the likelihood of the client appreciating and implementing suggestions increases substantially.
The Importance of Thoughtfulness in Client Relationships
Clients are more inclined to work with individuals who show genuine investment in their business needs. By actively contemplating and addressing their challenges, advisors communicate a rare level of thoughtfulness that distinguishes them from others. Highlighting this investment not only assures the client of the consultant's competency but also builds a stronger relational foundation. When clients recognize that someone is thoughtfully considering their unique situation, they are more likely to want to engage in a collaborative partnership.
How to Give Clients Useful Feedback Without Pushing Them Away
This episode features a clip from our Premium Ghostwriting Academy Hot Seat live session, where we discuss how to give clients clear, constructive feedback. Many people avoid telling clients what’s not working because they don’t want to risk upsetting them. But good feedback, shared the right way, builds trust and leads to better results. We’ll cover how to present your ideas, why making your suggestions tangible matters, and how to position yourself as a helpful partner rather than just another service provider.
🤖 Need some help learning how to leverage AI as a writer? Check out our favorite ChatGPT prompts for writers: https://startwritingwithai.com
💻 Want an endless supply of proven, viral-worthy digital writing templates? Check out our software platform, Typeshare: https://typeshare.co
🧙♂️Are you a fiction writer? Here's a crash course on how to turn timeless storytelling frameworks into game-changing ChatGPT prompts: https://startfictionwritingwithai.com/
📚 For more information on my books, businesses, and other writings, visit my website: https://www.nicolascole.com
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode