Product Testers

[Former_Member]

Okay, so I'm working on a new line of headbands, which I love, but I would love some outside feedback. Especially from someone who doesn't feel obligated to like it. :)

So my question is, how would you go about doing that? I have a few loyal customers who I had considered asking if they would be willing to give me feedback in exchange for the product. But I don't know if that would be considered spam. Any ideas?

[lippybrand]

I would ask my friends and family first. But understand what you mean about someone who wouldnt feel obligated to like it. But it seems that if you offer someone something free in exchange for feedback they would feel just as obligated to like it as family would. If you explain to friends that you need honest opinions for your business they might be more open.

I am not sure if that would be againts the rules or not...

[Former_Member]

Amy: I love your shop! I've looked at it a few times, and I love your binky holders and your blankets. They are adorable! I guess that is true though. I hadn't thought about it like that. Maybe it's more that I want fresh eyes to see it, you know? We'll see I guess. Thank you!

[lippybrand]

Thanks, I love your sailor headbands too! They look so soft. Alot of times I give things to my friends and ask them how it fit, or washed. And I feel like they are usually honest because they know that I need the information. Good luck! :)

[Former_Member]

I have had a few items where I've wanted honest feedback...I usually do either test myself, or my friends/family but I also have one customer who has become a friend that I've used on occasion. She and I have corresponded outside of Etsy and developed a friendship so I felt comfortable asking her (she loved it) but I don't know if I'd contact a random customer. Maybe find a repeat customer (that's what I did) who has been loyal and reward them that way...

[Former_Member]

Thanks Tye! That's kind of what I was thinking too. I just don't know if it would be considered spam, or if that's just weird in general. :)

[Former_Member]

I agree with an above poster. Friends and family are your best bet, so long as you explain to them that the information they will give you is critical to your business and to not sugar coat anything for you.

They can tell you best how it wears, feels, washes, etc., without shipping costs or possible neutral/negative feedback in your shop.

[Former_Member]

Have you ever worked with a photographer? You could set up a trade and they could give you honest feedback about the items and you would get a few pictures too. They would benefit by getting a prop for free or discounted. I am working with 2 photographers right now and they are awesome.

[Former_Member]

Jenni: That is an awesome idea. I hadn't even thought about that. I will definitely look into that as an option. Thank you!

[Former_Member]

convo me if you want to get together with either of the photographers i have used in my shop. there is also a great team for photographers and photo prop makers, that's how i got involved.

[Former_Member]

Awesome! I'll convo you. Thank you!