Managers and business owners alike are struggling with their workforce. Trying to fill open positions is hard enough, but trying to keep your current employees engaged and productive so they don’t leave can be the real struggle. Like many employers, you probably know the importance of getting employee satisfaction feedback. You may conduct an annual employee survey. Do employee surveys demotivate your people? They might – your people are likely jaded with them.
During my years working in the world of leadership development, I’ve worked with dozens of employers and employees on the feedback issue. Employees tell me that they would be more productive and loyal if there was better communication from the top. The leaders want answers to specific questions – so they survey their employees. Surveys are easy and automated. The first time an employee gets one they are excited to participate. After time passes, though, employee surveys can actually demotivate your team!
There are lots of reasons, but I’ve outlined a few for your consideration. If you are guilty of any of these items, you’re probably demotivating and demoralizing your own people! Here’s what I learned from the people I talk to:
- I never hear anything about the responses
- Nothing ever happens or changes after the survey
- I don’t trust that they’re anonymous – so I’m afraid to offer a suggestion
- Management just wants to get pats on the back
- There is no room for dialogue
- The next year, most of the questions are the same
- I didn’t even fill out the last one – why bother?
The survey can build morale if you thank everyone for their participation and insight, meet with them afterward and review the results, tell them what you can change, and explain why some things can’t be changed. Better yet, have a third party survey your people and pry deeper, looking for suggestions and examples. Then have that third party facilitate the discussion between management and the employees. Wow! That can make a big difference. I guarantee it.
