10 Must-Ask Questions for Your Employee Culture Survey

Today, people feel comfortable disclosing everything from what they ate for lunch to their feelings on highly charged political issues. But they may be hesitant to provide honest feedback about organizational problems.

Anonymous surveys allow employees to speak their minds honestly and help them feel actively involved in improving company culture, thereby increasing engagement. These are the questions you should include in your anonymous survey.

  1. What do you like about working here? Look for patterns in employee answers - this will point to the things you are doing well.

  2. What is the number one reason you accepted a job here? Gain insight into the reasons why people are drawn to your company, and use this as a recruiting tool.

  3. On a scale of 1-10, rate how happy you are at work. Extremely high or low ratings can provide a window into current morale.

  4. On a scale of 1-10, how challenged do you feel each day? When people feel challenged, they are engaged. Lack of challenge leads to boredom, complacency and ultimately, unhappiness.

  5. Do you feel like your role has a purpose? Why or why not? This will show how well you are connecting each person's role with the mission and goals of the organization. A strong sense of purpose indicates strong engagement.

  6. Have you accomplished your goals in the last six months? Why or why not? Goals keep employees focused. Lack of goals, or lack of follow-through with goals often indicates an organizational failure.

  7. What type of training would you like to receive to reach your next set of goals? Employees want to work for a company that supports their development, so learn what it is they want from you, and deliver it.

  8. Do you feel like your direct supervisor respects you? Why or why not? The main reason good employees leave an organization is a poor relationship with their boss. If there is a disconnect between management and employees, it indicates a larger problem.

  9. Do you believe co-workers here respect each other? Why or why not? Similarly, poor relationships with co-workers lead to unhappiness and dissatisfaction on the job.

  10. On a scale of 1-10, how likely would you be to recommend our organization to a friend looking for a new job? People who are truly happy will feel proud recommending your company to others.