How to handle feature requests during trials?
A thread 🧵
1. Listening: ignoring feedback
Problem:Â Users feel unheard when their feature requests are dismissed.
Fix: Acknowledge every request and thank users for sharing their thoughts, even if you can’t fulfill them immediately.
2. Prioritization: saying yes to everything
Problem:Â Overcommitting to requests can derail your product roadmap.
Fix:Â Evaluate feature requests based on alignment with your long-term vision and overall user impact.
3. Transparency: lack of clarity on feasibility
Problem:Â Users get frustrated when feature timelines are vague or unrealistic.
Fix:Â Clearly communicate whether the feature is planned, under consideration, or not currently feasible.
4. Pattern analysis: treating requests in isolation
Problem: Focusing on individual requests may lead to features that don’t scale.
Fix:Â Look for patterns in user feedback to identify common needs and prioritize accordingly.
5. Alternative solutions: neglecting existing features
Problem:Â Users might not explore the full potential of existing features.
Fix: Suggest workarounds or existing features that can address the user’s needs.
6. Validation: building features without validation
Problem:Â Developing a feature without user validation may lead to low adoption.
Fix:Â Conduct quick surveys or interviews to understand how many users genuinely need the feature.
7. Communication: failing to update users
Problem: Users feel disconnected when there’s no follow-up on their requests.
Fix:Â Share updates about planned or newly added features to keep users engaged and informed.
8. Boundaries: misaligned expectations
Problem: Users may request features that don’t align with your product’s core purpose.
Fix: Politely explain the product’s scope and share how you’re focusing on solving their most critical problems.
9. Segmentation: treating all requests equally
Problem:Â Failing to distinguish between high-value trial users and casual testers.
Fix:Â Prioritize feedback from users who align with your target audience or show high potential for conversion.
10. Learning: missing strategic insights
Problem: Feature requests aren’t utilized to refine product strategy.
Fix:Â Use requests to spot gaps in your offering and inform future roadmap decisions.
P.S. Struggling with trial-to-paid conversions? I’ll audit your current approach for free!
Mehul Fanawala
@MehulFanawala
Co-founded TheClueless.Company®, postgen, TheAgencyAuditor.com with @TheWriterWoman_ | Fun fact about me: Once, I jumped off a fast-moving bike!