Too Long, Didn’t Fill: Why Your Forms Are Getting Ignored
You just landed a new client. They’re pumped. You’re pumped. Everything’s set to go, except - they haven't filled out your onboarding form.
They said yes to your offer, so how come they’re ghosting you now? Simple: that form you sent is too long. Too complicated. Too much.
Instead of being a quick and easy next step in the process, it's now become an obstacle.
What happens when you overcomplicate forms
It's a chore
Your client feels like they’re doing work instead of getting things moving. No one wants to feel drained before the project even starts.
Too many decisions
Every question you ask is another decision they have to make. Decisions take time and energy, so they leave it for later or abandon it altogether.
Doubt sets in
The further down the form they go, the more they doubt if all this extra information is relevant. Now, they're second-guessing the process and wondering if it’s worth their time.
The fix: Make it easy, make it simple
I know what you're thinking. How are you supposed to get all the information you need for the perfect project if you're not allowed to have a detailed form?
Here’s the secret: You don’t need to know everything all at once.
Start with a discovery call before sending the proposal. This is where you get a clear picture of what they're looking for and it allows you to customize the proposal.
Not sure what to ask? Read all about how to nail your next discovery call.
Once your proposal is accepted, send over the onboarding form that only asks for the essentials. Think basic information you need to get started, such as any additional contact details or access to necessary tools and accounts.
For everything else, let the client schedule a kick-off call after the form is completed. This way, you can go over the finer details with them and build that relationship without overwhelming them.
Less is more
The proposal is your client's first impression of what it's like working with you. The form is their first official interaction with the project.
Both should set the tone for what’s to come - easy, efficient, and stress-free. Make the form easy to fill out, trim the fat, and you'll see a much better response.
