I had a colleague ask me, “Do you have any examples of particularly successful email solicitations for online surveys?“

It seems like such an easy question.

But, it is akin to asking: Can you show me copies of successful websites? 

As soon as you pull examples, they can say, “Well, that doesn’t apply to my client.”

Some important things to consider from your customers' perspective:
What’s my relationship to the company?  Do I believe the company will act upon what I tell them?  Do I feel comfortable being honest with them?  Do I have a sales rep that I prefer to give feedback to, instead of a written response?

What’s my incentive for filling out a survey?  Do I have a complaint, and I’m dying to give negative comments?  What are they offering me?  A $5 credit to use against my bill?  An accessory that complements the products I buy from them? Or, something that makes by professional life easier?

How long is it going to take?  It better be quick.  It better not require me to think too much.

When are you asking me?  After I’ve looked at your site?  After I’ve purchased something?  Is it event-triggered?  Or, is it out of the blue?  Have I been getting regular emails from you?  If not, then my sales rep should talk to me and tell me that I will be getting an email survey.

Who are they asking?  Everyone?  Or, am I made to feel special? 

The answers to the above questions will help drive the content of the email.  In addition, what other initiatives or customer communications are already scheduled to go out that I can piggyback survey requests on?

Finally, don’t forget a follow-up email telling respondents the “ratings” and what changes I’ve made, based on their feedback.

We are skilled in all aspects of email marketing, including email surveys.  We'll be glad to talk to you about your email content and design, as well as, strategy for segmentation and targeting.