In a world where feedback is critical but attention spans are short, are we surveying people too much? This is a valid concern, especially in large organisations where requests for input often feel relentless and uncoordinated. Survey fatigue is real—and not just for employees. 

Customers, too, are constantly bombarded with feedback requests, leading to diminishing returns. If you’re facing low response rates or disengaged audiences, it’s time to explore more creative ways to gather meaningful feedback. Here are five fresh approaches to consider:

1. Make it visual

The classic suggestion box might seem old-school, but it’s actually a highly effective way to collect feedback. This can be physical, digital, or a combination of both. 

For example:

• Digital options: Use a Microsoft Form that’s always open for ideas and feedback.

• Physical options: Place a box in key locations or set up a giant wall where people can post thoughts using cards or sticky notes.

To make it even more engaging:

• Ask specific questions, such as, “What would you do to make our CEO town halls even better?”

• Mix up response methods, like allowing emoji reactions or sticker voting.

Why this works:

• Anonymity: Many people feel more comfortable sharing honest feedback anonymously.

• Novelty: Physical suggestion walls stand out because they’re rarely used nowadays.

• Social proof: When others see responses (e.g., a tracker showing how many suggestions have been submitted), they’re more likely to participate.

2. Try voice channels

Why not let people speak their minds—literally? Voice channels can make providing feedback quick, easy, and even fun:

• Set up a dedicated phone line or WhatsApp number where people can leave voice messages.

• Prompt them with specific questions, like, “What’s one thing you’d change about today’s event?”

This approach is novel, convenient, and lets people share their thoughts on the go.

3. Tap into texting

If your audience is always on their phones, texting could be a low-effort way to gather feedback:

• Send a quick message asking for a rating, e.g., “On a scale of 1-5, how useful was the town hall?”

• Use SMS or messaging platforms to make it easy for them to reply in seconds.

Keep it simple. The less effort it takes, the more likely they are to respond.

4. Live feedback during events

Capturing feedback in real-time is a great way to get genuine responses:

• Use tools like Slido to run live polls or open-answer questions during events.

• Display responses on a separate screen to encourage participation through social proof.

This method works for both in-person and virtual events, allowing you to gauge audience sentiment as it unfolds.

5. Make it fun!

Feedback doesn’t have to be boring. Turn it into a game:

• Create a quiz with multiple-choice questions to test key messages from your communication.

• Example: “The CEO said our new strategy will take how many years to implement? (a) 3, (b) 5, (c) 7.”

• Incentivise participation with prizes or public recognition, like a leaderboard.

Gamification makes feedback enjoyable and drives higher engagement.

Bonus tips

1. Get ‘em while they’re hot!

Timing is everything. For events, don’t wait until attendees have left to ask for feedback. Instead:

• Provide a QR code for a quick survey and ask them to complete it before the closing session.

• Include a simple five-star rating link at the bottom of emails for instant reactions.

If you wait too long, your survey will likely get lost in the sea of communications your audience is already navigating.

2. Address the feedback

People need to know their voices are heard. After gathering feedback:

• Share key trends and insights.

• Thank participants for their input.

• Communicate what actions you plan to take based on their feedback.

This transparency builds trust and encourages future participation.