Don't ask if you're not going to answer!
In the past week, on three different occasions, I've filled out forms on websites requesting more information from the company about their services. These forms are on their websites explicitly for potential buyers to complete so that the company can provide a quote or more specific information about their services.
In all three cases, I've received no reply. That is, I've completed forms asking for more information, and the companies have not responded, even though they provide a form asking me for this information!
Now ask me what I think of these companies and the quality of service I can expect from them, should I become a customer.
Here's my simple rule: If you put a form on your website telling potential buyers to complete the form to receive more information, you need to actually respond to those forms! Ideally within 24 hours, but at least within a few days.
These companies have actually damaged their reputation by putting this form online and not responding. They would be better off not having the form at all and just telling me I need to call them to have my questions answered.
So take a look at your website. Do you have forms that are never reviewed or responded to? If you do, either take them down or figure out how you can respond to those forms in a timely manner. There's no sense in actively antagonizing your members and customers.
![]()
Wes's Wednesday Wisdom Archives
Don’t miss obvious engagement data
Don’t miss obvious engagement data What I’ve experienced with my clients over the years is […]
All data requires active management
All data requires active management It’s a simple fact of data management that is often […]
Documentation is critical for consistency
Documentation is critical for consistency There are so many reasons why documenting your data management […]
Consumer demands change and technology changes
Consumer demands change and technology changes When I work with clients on the selection of […]
Why I write
Why I write Thirty years ago, I started a new job as director of membership […]
DAN – The Data Analytics Network
DAN – The Data Analytics Network I’m a huge fan of users groups (both internal […]
Process before technology
Process before technology In a conversation with a client recently, I was reminded (yet again) […]
Opting out and communication preferences
Opting out and communication preferences Last week’s newsletter discussed the need for associations to collect mobile […]
Are you collecting mobile phone numbers? You should be.
Are you collecting mobile phone numbers? You should be. Are you collecting (and using) the […]
Spend less time on data management and more on higher value activities
Spend less time on data management and more on higher value activities Data management is very […]
