Listen to the Data, not the Sales Pitch – the Case for Multi-Metric Staff Surveys

Written by Dr John Viljoen,  Associate Consultant

Visiting a client recently to discuss information needs from their next staff survey, I was asked the question “What do you think are the most important metrics we should be seeking from our staff survey?”

I think this is the wrong question.  The most important metrics are the ones the data uncovers.  And, if you are lucky, the data will uncover some blind spots too.  In fact if it doesn’t do this you are probably using a fairly pedestrian diagnostic.

Telling, or Asking Questions?

Performance Focused Organisations know that the best way to achieve their goals is to engage their staff in their journey of growth and success. That engaging the hearts and minds of their staff means that they are half way towards those goals. That working with the personal “drivers” of staff can build loyalty, passion and strong engagement.

Over time we will talk about all of those elements, but today I want to ask you to consider the balance between control (telling) and leading (asking) when setting direction and allocating work.