How can you gather non-intrusive feedback from providers?

1 Use multiple methods

Don't rely on just one way of collecting feedback from providers. Different methods may suit different situations, preferences, and goals. For example, you can use online surveys for quick and anonymous feedback, phone calls for more in-depth and personal feedback, or focus groups for interactive and collective feedback. You can also use different tools, such as Google Forms, SurveyMonkey, or Zoom, to make the process easier and more accessible.

2 Be clear and concise

When you ask for feedback from providers, make sure you are clear and concise about what you want to know, why you want to know it, and how you will use it. Providers are more likely to respond if they understand the purpose and value of your feedback request, and if they don't feel overwhelmed by too many questions or too much information. You can also use simple and direct language, avoid jargon and acronyms, and provide examples or options if needed.

3 Be respectful and flexible

When you ask for feedback from providers, be respectful and flexible about their time and availability. Providers are busy and may have competing demands and priorities. You can show respect and flexibility by giving them options to choose when, where, and how they want to provide feedback, by setting realistic and reasonable deadlines, and by thanking them for their participation and input. You can also follow up with them if they don't respond, but don't be too pushy or intrusive.

4 Be responsive and transparent

When you receive feedback from providers, be responsive and transparent about how you will use it and what actions you will take. Providers are more likely to trust you and give you feedback again if they see that you listen to them and value their opinions. You can show responsiveness and transparency by acknowledging their feedback, sharing the results and findings, and explaining how you will implement changes or improvements based on their feedback.

5 Be creative and fun

When you ask for feedback from providers, be creative and fun to make the process more engaging and enjoyable. Providers are more likely to participate if they feel that you care about them and their experience, and if they have some fun along the way. You can be creative and fun by using different formats, such as games, quizzes, or polls, by adding incentives, such as prizes, rewards, or recognition, or by using humor, emojis, or gifs.

6 Be ethical and professional

When you ask for feedback from providers, be ethical and professional to protect their privacy and confidentiality. Providers are more likely to share honest and constructive feedback if they feel that you respect their rights and interests, and if they don't fear any negative consequences. You can be ethical and professional by following the relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines, by obtaining informed consent, by anonymizing or aggregating the data, and by storing and disposing of it securely.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?