1. Try the survey on a few selected test persons
Once you feel comfortable with the form, it is a good idea to have it tested by a few colleagues or friends. Ask them to keep track of how long it takes them to answer the questionnaire and how they feel about the flow of the questions etc.
This way you can evaluate the design of the form. At the same time, you will get responses that will help you evaluate whether the questions provide good measurable material to work with after the survey is completed.
2. Print estimated time spent on the survey
Printing an estimated time for completing the form in the invitation and/or at the top gives respondents a good chance to plan their time. Also, take the opportunity to inform them about what the answers will be used for. Phrase the invitation directly to the respondent rather than writing the invitation to the group of recipients as a whole.
3. Send the survey to the right people
Make sure that the survey is sent to the recipients who are really interested in the issues covered by the survey. It is not necessary to send the invitation to all your contacts as the response rate is unlikely to increase with the number of respondents invited.
The best quality responses will come from genuinely interested respondents and it is primarily from them that you want feedback.
4. Share analysis and actions with respondents
Once the survey has been completed and the responses analyzed, it is useful to share the insights you have gained from the analysis, as well as any actions or activities that will take place as a result of the insights.
If respondents feel that they are part of the change process in the company or association, they are always more likely to respond to future surveys as well.