It’s always a good idea to know how your customers feel about doing business with you. Doing a survey is a good way to find that out.
Why? Their feedback could change the way that you see things, from your policies, customer service and marketing standpoints.
Surveys are very easy to do. Many online programs, like Constant Contact and Survey Monkey, make it very simple. But if you are doing it yourself, take the time to do it right.
More and more companies are sending out surveys, so it’s important to note at the start of your survey how long it will take to complete. If it is going to take more than two minutes, they will hit the delete button pretty quickly. To bump up your response rate, offer a prize or incentive – it works every time.
Here’s some tips for preparing a good survey.
- Write a short questionnaire.
- Use simple words, relax your grammar, and start with interesting questions.
- Ask questions to get the information you really need, for example, don’t ask their age if it is not really relevant to the end goal of the survey.
- Put your questions in logical order.
- Don’t write leading questions.
- Use closed-ended questions rather than open-ended ones.
- Avoid double negatives.
- Don’t make the list of response choices too long.
- Name your survey and test it before you send it to your customers.
- Include a cover memo or introduction.
- Include a place for comments – this is where you usually get your best feedback.
Have fun with your survey and don’t forget to use the KISS method (keep it short and sweet).