Employee surveys, when correctly crafted and utilized, are an employer's cheat sheet to increase employee retention and satisfaction. Knowing what questions to ask, how and when to ask them, and how to interpret the insights gained are markings of an organization in tune with its workforce. Creating an employee survey deserves considerable time and effort.
The first step in designing an employee survey is determining the purpose and survey type.
- Engagement surveys measure an employee’s commitment to their work.
- Benefit surveys measure employee satisfaction with their benefit lineup. While being mindful of budgetary constraints is a priority, employers can look to employees for feedback on where their dollars are most appreciated.
- Satisfaction, or climate surveys, measure employee satisfaction and morale.
Regardless of the purpose of the survey, questions should be purposeful and concise. In general, employees do not want to be subject to long surveys that consume valuable time. Too many questions can deter employees from thoughtfully responding. Anonymous surveys also encourage employees to provide honest feedback without fear of retaliation. Having a neutral third party administer and collect survey results ensures responses remain confidential.
Beyond asking the right questions, employers should have the right action plan once a survey closes. Management’s lack of response after reviewing employee survey results can spur negative emotions in employees and come off as an insincere effort to gather employee feedback. Employee feedback, positive or negative, is the launchpad for strengthening an organization. Acknowledge the responses, communicate strategies for improvement and affirm the value the results have provided the organization.
Creating the right employee survey for your organization is an undertaking that Bukaty Companies’ expert HR Consultants are well-versed in handling. Contact our team to learn more about our effective survey design and administration services.
