Best practices for employee surveys - Step 11: Ensure a high response rate

Previous Steps
1. Determine Objectives
2. Select a data collection method
3. Get buy-in from managers
4. Develop the process
5. Create a schedule
6. Select a supplier
7. Develop the questionnaire
8. Get buy-in from stakeholders
9. Get buy-in from employees
10. Develop the invitation

Step 11: Ensure a high response rate

In Step 10, you created the survey invitation. Here are a few tips for ensuring a high response rate.

• Publicize the survey before the data collection begins (approximately one week)
• Write an effective invitation (see Step 10)
• Make it clear that the survey can be completed on company time
• Assure employees that all responses will be confidential (if using a third party to administer and analyze the survey, let employees know that their responses will be received directly by the research firm and that no one in your organization will see their individual ratings)
• Send reminder messages (see How and when to send reminders for online surveys)
• When the results come in, share some of the findings with employees
• Act on the results

 

Bottom Line

A high response rate is a critical component of a successful employee survey. These steps will help increase both the quantity and quality of the data you receive.