Increase Survey Response Rates

The higher your survey response rate, the greater the likelihood that your results will highlight the full spectrum of experience among your target population. Below are some tips for increasing response rates.

Accessibility

Individuals from your target population are more likely to respond to a survey when it is easily accessible. Administer your survey in a format that will be easy for them to access and complete. If your target population is tech-savvy, use an online survey. If not, consider other forms of gathering data, such as hard copies, telephone, or in-person interviews.

Soliciting responses

How you announce the survey is important. Be sure to state the purpose of the survey, who is sponsoring it, the length of time it will take to complete the survey, and a brief description of how the survey results will be used.

Timing

If you are soliciting responses via email, try to send the email first thing in the morning or by the early afternoon. Avoid sending an email about the survey in the late afternoon or evening.

Follow up

A follow up email, phone call, or postcard, sent within a week or two of your first contact with your target population may help to increase survey response rates. Following up serves as a reminder to respondents who intended to complete the survey but who have not yet done so. Strike a balance, though, as too many follow-ups can become an annoyance to respondents.