Kickstarter campaigns can be a thrilling experience for creators, filled with the highs of garnering support and, inevitably, the lows of seeing pledges drop.
It’s a common occurrence; backers might cancel or adjust their pledges for a myriad of reasons. While it’s essential to remain undeterred by these fluctuations, it’s equally critical to understand how to potentially recover these pledges.
Why Do Backers Drop Out?
Backers might opt to cancel their pledges due to several reasons:
- Preference for Another Project: The world of crowdfunding is vast, and backers might encounter another project that aligns more with their interests.
- Financial Considerations: Monetary restrictions can lead backers to reconsider their commitments, especially if they’re stretching their budgets.
- Waning Trust: A lapse in communication or doubts about the project’s feasibility can erode backers’ confidence, prompting them to retract their pledges.
Typically, the rate of dropped pledges hovers around 5% during the campaign. But brace yourself, as this figure might spike to over 10% when Kickstarter processes payments at the campaign’s close.
Reacquiring Dropped Pledges: Step-by-Step
Let’s zero in on the pledges that backers drop while the campaign is live. Here’s how to effectively handle and possibly recover these pledges:
- Identify the Dropped Pledge: Time is of the essence. As soon as you note a dropped pledge, jump into action. Your Kickstarter dashboard, particularly under the ‘activity’ section, is your best friend in this endeavor, listing all canceled pledges.
- Directly Message the Backer: By clicking on the backer’s name, you can access their profile, which provides a direct messaging option. Always approach backers with kindness. A message that radiates gratitude and understanding can go a long way.
- Understand Their Concerns: Once they respond, listen. Understanding their reasons can help you provide an appropriate solution. For example:
- If they express doubts about the campaign, assure them transparently.
- If finances are the issue, think about adding value to their original pledge. Offering a bonus or suggesting the possibility of a late pledge might appeal to them.
- In cases where they might support your project in the future, consider acquiring their email for your newsletter. This keeps the door open for potential future support.
Engaging with backers who’ve decided to retract their support is more than just an exercise in pledge recovery. It’s about building relationships, understanding feedback, and refining your campaign based on genuine concerns. By promptly and empathetically addressing dropped pledges, you not only enhance your chances of reclaiming support but also deepen trust with your audience, setting the stage for current and future project successes.