There are virtually countless ways to collect employee feedback. Some methods are more effective and reliable than others and you also want to ensure that the feedback is honest and not just what the employee believes the boss wants to hear.
There are various ways to gather feedback, from informal conversations to company-wide feedback channels. In this article, we will focus on the most effective methods of collecting feedback that can result in higher employee engagement.
Anonymous feedback platforms
You want honest and credible feedback and one way you can ensure this is by creating one or more channels where employees can offer their input anonymously, without fear of repercussions if their feedback is negative.
Conducting simple anonymous employee surveys using a platform like Survey Monkey, for example, is an easy way to accomplish this. There are various online platforms available for interactive presentations, employee management, and more, which have a built-in anonymous feedback feature.
Performance review meetings
These are usually conducted as a one-on-one meeting between the employee and either the company boss or a team leader. These meetings are often more effective when conducted in a relaxed atmosphere as opposed to something stiff and formal. The more relaxed an employee feels, the greater the chance of them being open and honest.
Arrange a casual coffee or drink meetup with the person to discuss their performance and establish an open feedback channel.
Conduct a company-wide survey
The idea of this broad survey is to gather employee feedback from everyone simultaneously. The survey may have a specific focus or contain general questions that cover a range of topics.
Ensure the survey questions are clear and easy to answer without requiring extensive writing. Analyze the results to gain an overview of everyone’s opinions.
The information gathered from surveys will prove to be invaluable data that can then be used to map out an action plan for the company moving forward, or any other actionable steps deemed necessary.
Real and virtual suggestion boxes
The idea of a physical suggestion box might seem a little dated, but the simple fact is, that they do work. Set up a suggestion box somewhere on the premises and encourage employees to drop a note offering ideas for improvements.
Alternatively, employee feedback software can be deployed as a digital and modern way of providing a virtual suggestion box.
You can even use suggestion boxes for simple things, such as gathering unique ideas for the company’s next Christmas party. It’s all about employee engagement and keeping everyone connected with your brand.
360-degree feedback sessions
These sessions involve multi-source and multi-rater feedback. For instance, an employee (or even the boss) receives feedback from a variety of sources, including superiors, subordinates, and peers. Customer feedback can even be featured in 360-degree sessions.
These sessions are designed to be challenging yet positive. Feedback sessions can be conducted in real-time, or via the use of a comprehensive feedback form that everyone fills out.
Form focus groups
Focus groups can be formed to represent different departments or teams within the company. Smaller and more targeted discussions can then take place within the group to gather quality feedback.
These groups cultivate more in-depth discussions based on certain topics and produce more insightful results. As a result, teamwork and collaboration are promoted.
Data collected is then compiled and produced into a report that can be presented to company heads.
Town Hall Team Meetings
The idea behind the town hall-style of team meeting is to provide a forum where employees can openly share their thoughts, ideas, and concerns without fear of ridicule or criticism. These team meetings tend to foster a sense of transparency and a feeling of being included and heard.
Leverage exit interviews
If an employee has handed in their resignation and is moving on, before they go, organize a brief exit interview with them. This less formal interview will give you the chance to seek feedback (positive or negative) from the employees before they are gone for good.
Final thoughts
Here are some ideas to help you collect valuable employee feedback for your business. However, it’s crucial to follow up and act on the feedback you receive. Never ask employees for their time and input, only to disregard it. Remember, their feedback can be an excellent source of insight and can help you improve your business operations.
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