7 Innovative Ideas to Encourage Customer Feedback Through Suggestion Boxes

Hello, savvy marketer!

Gone are the days when feedback was a mere afterthought; today, it's the backbone of iterative business strategies. But here's a challenge: In an era where every business wields a suggestion box, how do you stand out and ensure your feedback mechanisms are not just seen, but engaged with? How do you move beyond the standard "drop your thoughts here" approach to something that resonates with the tech-savvy, time-crunched modern consumer?

If you're reading this, you're not just looking to collect feedback; you're aiming to do it with style, efficiency, and maximum engagement. The suggestion box, while familiar to many, can still be reinvented, reimagined, and revamped for the digital age. Whether you're looking to integrate augmented reality, leverage social media trends, or even turn feedback into an immersive game, it's time to breathe new life into an old classic.

So, fellow innovator, are you ready to discover how the age-old suggestion box can become your most powerful tool in the digital age? Dive in and let's transform the feedback collection together!

Without further delay, let’s jump into the ideas!!

#1: Digital Suggestion Boxes

In today's digital age, where technology is at the forefront of most customer interactions, why not integrate it into the good old suggestion box? Enter the digital suggestion box - a modern take on collecting feedback.

• Incorporating Touch-screen Devices or Tablets In-store: Instead of a physical box and paper forms, businesses can place touch-screen devices or tablets at strategic points within their establishment. These devices can be programmed with a simple, intuitive feedback form, making it easy for customers to provide their opinions.
• User-friendly Interfaces and Instant Submission: Customers no longer need to hunt for a pen or wonder where their feedback slips go. With a digital interface, they can quickly tap their thoughts, select from pre-defined options, or even voice-record their feedback. The instant submission ensures that no feedback is lost or misplaced.
• Encouraging Feedback with Digital Rewards or Discount Codes: To sweeten the deal, once the feedback is submitted, customers can be presented with a discount code for their next purchase or a small digital reward as a 'Thank You' for their time and effort.

Check out BlockSurvey’s Customer Suggestion Box template, the most secure platform to handle your feedback system with utmost privacy and security.

#2: Gamify the Experience

People love games. The thrill of winning, the suspense of the unknown outcome, and the sheer fun of participation can turn a mundane task into an exciting one.

• Spin-the-Wheel or Scratch Cards for Every Feedback Given: Imagine submitting your feedback and then getting a chance to spin a digital wheel for a prize. Whether it's a small discount, a freebie, or just a fun message, it makes the experience memorable.
• Offering Small Prizes or Discounts as Incentives: Even the smallest rewards can motivate customers to take a minute and share their thoughts. It could be as simple as 5% off their next purchase or a complimentary item.
• Sharing the “Top Feedback of the Month” with a Special Reward: Recognizing and rewarding the most constructive feedback can encourage more detailed and valuable insights from customers, making them feel truly heard and appreciated.

#3: Feedback through QR Codes

In a fast-paced world, convenience is king. QR codes provide an instantaneous bridge between the physical and digital worlds, making them perfect for feedback collection.

• Easy-to-Scan QR Codes on Product Labels or Receipts: By placing QR codes on product packaging or at the bottom of a receipt, businesses give customers the opportunity to provide feedback at their own convenience. Whether they're still in-store, on their way home, or lounging on their couch, customers can scan the code and jump straight to a feedback form.
• Quick and Hassle-Free Feedback Form Access: The simplicity of scanning a QR code and accessing a form eliminates many barriers to feedback. It removes the need for customers to visit a specific website or download an app.
• Option to Give Feedback Anytime, Anywhere: Unlike fixed kiosks or in-store tablets, QR codes can be scanned anytime, anywhere. This flexibility means customers can provide feedback when it's fresh in their minds, leading to more accurate and detailed insights.

With these innovative approaches, businesses can reinvigorate the feedback collection process, making it more engaging and productive. As always, the key is to keep the customer at the heart of every initiative.

#4: Incorporate Visual Prompts

• The Power of Imagery: A picture is worth a thousand words. When trying to encourage customer feedback, a captivating image or visual prompt can make all the difference.
• Humorous or Engaging Graphics: Turn your suggestion box into a conversation starter. Whether it's a comic-strip-styled illustration of a character eagerly waiting for suggestions or a thought-provoking slogan, use creativity to draw attention.
• Feedback Mascots or Characters: Create a brand mascot specifically for feedback. This figure can be a friendly reminder, creating consistency and making feedback collection more memorable.
• Infographics: An infographic at the feedback point highlighting the importance and subsequent results of suggestions can motivate customers. It shows them that their voice matters and can lead to tangible changes.

#5: Social Media Integration

• Feedback in the Age of Social Media: Almost everyone's on social media these days. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter offer unparalleled access to customer insights.
• Online Campaigns Asking for Feedback: Regularly run campaigns where customers can share their experiences, perhaps with a branded hashtag. For example, "#BrandXFeedbackFridays" where customers share their thoughts every Friday.
• Hashtag Challenges: Introduce challenges related to your product or service and ask for feedback on those challenges. It's not just about gathering feedback but also increasing brand visibility.

#6: Feedback Kiosks with Instant Gratification

• Stand-alone Kiosks: Strategically place these kiosks in high-traffic areas. Ensure they are user-friendly and visually appealing. Sometimes, a dedicated space can motivate a customer to stop and share their thoughts.
• Instant Coupons or Discount Codes: Everyone loves an instant reward. Once a customer completes their feedback, a coupon code appears on the screen or is printed, giving them a discount on their next purchase.
• Spotlight on Frequent Feedback Contributors: Consider introducing a "Feedback Hall of Fame" in-store, showcasing the names or pictures (with their consent) of regular feedback contributors. It's a way of saying, "We see you, and we value your input!"

#7: Themed Suggestion Boxes

• Seasonal or Event-based Themes: For instance, during Christmas, design the suggestion box to look like Santa’s mailbox. For Valentine's, it could be a "Love Box" where customers share what they love (or don't) about your services.
• Part of Larger Campaigns: If the store is running a specific campaign or promotion, tie in the feedback mechanism to that theme. For example, during a "Back to School" sale, the feedback box could be shaped like a school bus with a sign saying, "Drive us in the right direction with your feedback!"
• Engage the Community: Sometimes, the themes could be based on local events or festivals. This not only attracts feedback but also shows your commitment to community values and traditions.

To Conclude

By integrating these innovative methods, businesses can ensure they’re not just collecting feedback but doing so in a way that excites and engages their customers. Always remember, the process of giving feedback should be as enjoyable for the customer as receiving it is for the business.