Summary of "Coffee With Cole: The Digital Writing Podcast"

Episode: How to Give Clients Feedback They’ll Actually Appreciate
Host: Nicolas Cole
Release Date: February 20, 2025

Introduction

In the February 20, 2025 episode of Coffee With Cole: The Digital Writing Podcast, host Nicolas Cole delves into the nuanced art of providing feedback to clients in a manner that is both constructive and appreciated. The episode features a candid conversation between two professionals (referred to as Speaker A and Speaker B) who explore effective strategies for delivering feedback without alienating clients or diminishing their efforts.

The Challenge of Giving Feedback

Understanding Client Sensitivities

Speaker B initiates the discussion by recounting a recent interaction with a prospect. He emphasizes the delicate balance between offering valuable insights and avoiding perceptions of criticism.

[00:13] Speaker B: "The key is, all right, how do we provide the focus on the one big thing that's going to really help drive him all without, you know, calling his baby ugly?"

This highlights the common fear among professionals that honest feedback might be misconstrued as negative criticism, thereby jeopardizing client relationships.

The Misconception of Offensiveness

Speaker A acknowledges this concern and underscores a prevalent misconception: that clients will inherently take offense to constructive criticism.

[04:27] Speaker A: "This is a very common question, is there's this faulty belief to break down that when you tell a potential client something they're doing wrong, that they're going to get offended or they're going to get mad."

He suggests that this belief is often unfounded, provided the feedback is framed appropriately.

Framing Feedback Constructively

The Importance of Approach

A central theme of the conversation revolves around how to present feedback rather than what to say. Speaker A uses an engaging analogy to illustrate this point involving a barber and a client:

[03:04] Speaker A: "If you're a professional barber, and I have food in my teeth all night, are you going to not tell me because you're like, I don't wanna offend them? It's like, no, you're actually doing them a disservice."

This analogy underscores the necessity of honesty delivered with kindness and professionalism.

Demonstrating Value Through Thoughtfulness

Speaker A further elaborates on the importance of demonstrating genuine thoughtfulness and investment in the client's business:

[06:18] Speaker A: "The more you demonstrate, the more likely the person is to go, I want to work with you. ... The person on Upwork who's, like, waiting for jobs isn't sitting there thinking about your business. They're just like, well, if you pay me by the hour. I'll do what you need."

By showcasing that you've invested time and effort into understanding and improving their business, you differentiate yourself from the generic service providers.

Practical Strategies for Effective Feedback

Simplifying Content for Greater Impact

One actionable strategy discussed is the simplification of a client's long-form content to enhance clarity and conversion rates.

[05:17] Speaker A: "Instead of just saying, I think you have really great long form content, I just feel like you could simplify it. I would take 15 minutes, I would take one of their long form pieces, I would simplify it down to like three shorter form text posts or whatever you, you, you would do."

This approach not only provides tangible examples but also demonstrates initiative and a proactive attitude towards enhancing the client's content strategy.

Creating Tangible Examples

Drawing parallels with how major ad agencies operate, Speaker A emphasizes the value of presenting tangible solutions rather than abstract suggestions.

[06:18] Speaker A: "Micro level, you actually want to do the same thing. ... You want to communicate it tangibly. So if I were you, Rich, and for everyone else here, if you see an opportunity like that, instead of just saying, I think you have really great long form content, I just feel like you could simplify it. I would take 15 minutes, I would take one of their long form pieces, I would simplify it down to like three shorter form text posts or whatever you, you, you would do. Yeah, I would do that work."

By providing specific examples, you bridge the conceptual gap clients might have, making your feedback more actionable and less abstract.

Pre-prepared Documentation

Speaker B agrees with the strategy and adds that pre-preparing documentation, such as Google Docs outlining potential improvements, can further solidify the value you offer.

[09:19] Speaker B: "Even I'm thinking about his landing pages. I mean, that would be something. A quick win too. Would that be kind of along the similar lines?"

This proactive approach reassures clients of your commitment and the tangible benefits of your feedback.

Importance of Demonstrating Value

Thoughtful Engagement as a Differentiator

Speaker A stresses that thoughtful engagement is a key differentiator in client relationships.

[11:59] Speaker A: "The thing you want to communicate is. I actually spent time last night. I sat there, I thought about your business. I, like, really soaked in it. I. I love what you're about. I would love to work with you on this."

This level of dedication not only builds trust but also showcases your genuine interest in the client's success, making your feedback more palatable and appreciated.

Overcoming the Faulty Belief

Speaker B reflects on the insights shared, recognizing the importance of adding value without coming across as critical.

[11:31] Speaker B: "That's. That's what I needed to hear. Kind of think about how to progress him in this opportunity in a way that adds value. But isn't to your point? Just saying I have another idea. Right."

This reinforces the notion that providing thoughtful, value-driven feedback can significantly enhance client relationships and project outcomes.

Conclusion

In this episode of Coffee With Cole, Nicolas Cole effectively guides listeners through the intricacies of delivering client feedback that is both constructive and appreciated. By emphasizing the importance of how feedback is framed, providing practical strategies, and showcasing genuine thoughtfulness, professionals can overcome common fears associated with client interactions. The conversation serves as a valuable resource for digital writers, ghostwriters, and self-publishers seeking to enhance their client communication skills and foster more productive, positive relationships.

Notable Quotes

• [00:13] Speaker B: "How do we provide the focus on the one big thing that's going to really help drive him all without, you know, calling his baby ugly?"
• [04:27] Speaker A: "This is a very common question, is there's this faulty belief to break down that when you tell a potential client something they're doing wrong, that they're going to get offended or they're going to get mad."
• [03:04] Speaker A: "If you're a professional barber... you're actually doing them a disservice."
• [06:18] Speaker A: "The more you demonstrate, the more likely the person is to go, I want to work with you."
• [05:17] Speaker A: "I would take 15 minutes... I would simplify it down to like three shorter form text posts."
• [11:59] Speaker A: "I actually spent time last night... I love what you're about. I would love to work with you on this."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and practical advice shared in the podcast episode, providing valuable takeaways for listeners interested in mastering the art of giving appreciative and effective client feedback.