Ugh, no one is filling out our survey

During last week’s Data Drop-in, we talked about strategies for getting people to fill out surveys. Since it’s a biiiiiiig challenge for so many people (my team included), I thought I’d share some of what we covered during the session.

The reality is, we’re INUNDATED by surveys, plus there’s all those tasks, and asks, and bings, and bongs (and I wish all of it was as cute as these goats).

Plus, surveys in particular can feel a bit alienating and extractive to people. So how can we run them in a way that provides useful information and enhances relationships?

Meet people where they are. Leverage existing meetings, events, and get-togethers to gather information.

Make the case. Often, people want to help. Make sure they know why their perspectives are important and how the information will be used.

Keep it short. If possible, ask for just a few minutes of their time. One of the Data Drop-in attendees had the great idea of asking a few questions at a time across a few meetings/events so it feels less overwhelming.

Use incentives. The trick is to find something that will resonate, and it may not require big bucks. You could try gift cards or raffles, which we see often. Or something related to your organization like membership discounts, tickets to an event, or swag (e.g., hats, shirts). Also consider something silly but meaningful like, as I heard recently, pins with nerdy book puns as an incentive for librarians.

Send reminders. Probably more than you think, but try not to annoy people. Multiple formats can be helpful - emails, social media posts, announcements during meetings.

Get creative. Instead of another Google Form, play around with Mentimeter, or have people raise their hands, or move to different sides of the room, or drop pom-poms in a jar (like we did a couple months ago, see below). Even something a little different, a little more hands-on, can get people excited about participating. Check out this great resource from Public Profit for more ideas.

And lastly, always ask, is a survey the right fit? Maybe conversations, observations, or something you already have on hand will get you the information you need.