13 Effective Ways to Increase Survey Response Rates

Are you struggling to increase survey response rates? With Harvard Business Review sharing that a survey response rate below 40% in business indicates a problem, it becomes imperative to rethink the strategy to increase survey response. 

In today's digital age, getting people to participate in surveys can be challenging. A low response rate can undermine the validity and usefulness of your survey results. Therefore, increasing survey response rates is crucial for gathering valuable feedback and insights from your target audience. 

To ensure your surveys yield meaningful data, it's crucial to employ strategies that increase survey response rates. This blog will explore 13 effective ways to increase survey response rates. Whether you're conducting market research, seeking customer feedback, or collecting data for academic purposes, these proven strategies will help you boost your response rates and get the insights you need.

Let's dive in and start improving your survey game!

13 Tips to increase survey response rates

Here are 13 effective tips to increase survey response rates with examples from well-known brands:

1. Personalization and targeting

Personalization can significantly enhance survey response rates. Start by customizing your survey invitations to make them more engaging and relevant. Address recipients by their names and acknowledge any previous interactions or purchases they've had with your brand.

Consider segmenting your audience based on demographics, behavior, or other relevant factors. By tailoring your survey content to each group's specific interests or needs, you make respondents feel that their input is valuable, increasing the likelihood of participation.

For example: Netflix's Personalized Recommendations

Netflix is a prime example of how personalization can drive user engagement and survey response rates. They use sophisticated algorithms to analyze user viewing habits and preferences. Based on this data, they provide personalized content recommendations to each user. When Netflix wants to gather user feedback, they send out surveys that are tailored to the individual's viewing history and preferences.

For instance, if a user watches a lot of documentaries, the survey may focus on their opinions about Netflix's documentary selection. This personalized approach increases the likelihood of users responding to the survey because it's directly relevant to their interests.

Another great example is Amazon: Amazon uses personalization extensively to boost survey response rates. When customers make a purchase, they receive follow-up emails asking for feedback on the product and shopping experience. These emails are personalized and often include the product's name, a picture of it, and specific questions related to the purchase. This personal touch encourages customers to respond, leading to a higher response rate and valuable insights for Amazon.

2. Incentives and rewards

Offering incentives and rewards can be a powerful motivator for survey participation. Tangible rewards like discounts, gift cards, or free products/services in exchange for completing a survey can be particularly effective.

Alternatively, you can create excitement by giving participants the chance to win valuable prizes through a random drawing. Non-monetary rewards, such as exclusive content, early access, or recognition, can also appeal to different motivations and encourage higher response rates.

For example: Starbucks’ Rewards Program

Starbucks has a highly successful customer rewards program. They occasionally send out surveys to their loyalty program members, offering them the chance to earn bonus stars (which can be redeemed for free drinks and food items) in exchange for completing the survey. This incentive encourages customers to take the time to provide feedback, increasing the response rate.

Another great example is Airbnb: Airbnb often offers incentives to both hosts and guests to complete surveys. For instance, they may offer hosts a discount on their next Airbnb booking or provide guests with travel credits in return for completing a survey about their recent stay. These incentives motivate users to participate and share their opinions, ultimately improving the Airbnb experience for all users.

3. Mobile optimization and convenience

In today's mobile-centric world, it's crucial to optimize your surveys for mobile devices. Ensure that your survey design is responsive and user-friendly on various screen sizes. Many people access surveys on smartphones and tablets, so a mobile-optimized experience is essential.

Keep surveys concise and straightforward, ideally taking no longer than 5-10 minutes to complete. Implement features like progress bars to show respondents how far they are into the survey and how much time remains, improving the overall convenience and user experience.

For example: Uber's In-App Surveys

Uber utilizes the convenience of their mobile app to gather feedback from both drivers and riders. After a trip, users receive a prompt to rate their experience and provide feedback. The process is quick and straightforward, making it easy for users to participate. This real-time feedback mechanism ensures a higher response rate and allows Uber to address issues promptly.

Another great example is Airbnb: Airbnb also excels in mobile optimization. Their app includes a user-friendly feedback feature, allowing guests to rate their stay and leave comments directly from their mobile devices. This streamlined process encourages more users to provide feedback, as it's convenient and accessible.

4. Social proof and trust-building

Building trust with survey participants is paramount. Incorporate elements of social proof by sharing testimonials or reviews from previous respondents who have found value in participating.

This demonstrates the legitimacy and credibility of your surveys. Additionally, clearly communicate your commitment to data privacy and anonymity. Reassure participants that their information will be kept confidential and used solely for research purposes. Design your surveys with a clean and professional appearance to further instill confidence in respondents.

For example: TripAdvisor's Traveler Reviews

TripAdvisor, a leading travel platform, relies on social proof to encourage users to leave reviews and feedback. They prominently display the number of reviews and ratings for each hotel, restaurant, or attraction. Additionally, they showcase traveler photos and highlight contributions from "Top Reviewers." This builds trust among users and motivates them to contribute their own reviews and ratings, leading to higher response rates.

Another great example is Yelp:

Yelp, a popular review platform, effectively uses social proof to encourage user-generated content. They display the number of reviews, photos, and check-ins for each business. They also have a "Yelp Elite Squad" program that recognizes and rewards active and trusted reviewers. This approach fosters a sense of community and trust, prompting more users to participate by leaving reviews and completing surveys.

5. Multi-channel engagement

Diversify your approach to engage a broader audience. Promote your surveys through various channels, including email, social media, website banners, and even physical flyers or in-store signage if applicable.

Timing is also crucial; experiment with different times and days to send survey invitations to maximize reach and engagement. Don't hesitate to send gentle reminders to those who haven't responded yet, but do so tactfully to avoid being perceived as spammy.

By utilizing multiple touchpoints and outreach strategies, you can increase the visibility of your survey and improve response rates

For example: Spotify's In-App Surveys and Email Follow-Ups

Spotify employs a multi-channel approach to gather feedback from its users. They often use in-app surveys to collect opinions on specific features or playlists, making it convenient for users to respond while using the app. Additionally, they send follow-up emails to users who have engaged with the app, asking for more detailed feedback. This combination of in-app and email surveys maximizes their chances of receiving responses.

Another amazing example is: Delta Air Lines

They uses a multi-channel strategy to gather passenger feedback. In addition to in-flight surveys, they also send post-flight emails to passengers, asking for their thoughts on the travel experience. This approach ensures that they capture feedback from passengers at different touchpoints, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of customer satisfaction and areas for improvement.

6. Transparency and communication

Maintaining transparency throughout the survey process is vital. Clearly communicate the purpose of your survey, how the data will be used, and the expected benefits for participants. Address any concerns about data privacy and anonymity upfront. Establish trust by being open and honest, which can encourage more people to participate.

For example: Tesla's "Tesla Customer Feedback" blog

Tesla maintains a blog dedicated to customer feedback and improvements. They regularly post updates on how they've addressed customer concerns and suggestions. This transparent approach not only encourages customers to provide feedback but also shows that the company values their opinions. It fosters a sense of community and collaboration, ultimately boosting survey response rates.

Another amazing example is: Zappos

Zappos, an online shoe and clothing retailer, is known for its exceptional customer service. They have a "Feedback Wall" where they publicly display customer feedback and reviews, both positive and negative. This transparency demonstrates Zappos' commitment to listening to customers and improving based on their input. Customers are more likely to provide feedback when they know it will be acknowledged and acted upon.

7. Gamification and interactive surveys

Incorporating gamification elements into your surveys can make them more engaging. Create interactive survey experiences with elements like quizzes, polls, or challenges. Offer rewards or recognition for completing certain milestones within the survey.

Gamified surveys not only capture respondents' attention but also make the process more enjoyable, resulting in higher response rates.

For example: McDonald's Monopoly Game

McDonald's runs a popular Monopoly promotion where customers receive game pieces with their purchases. These pieces often include survey codes that customers can enter online for a chance to win prizes. By integrating surveys into a gamified experience, McDonald's encourages customers to participate in surveys, thereby increasing their response rates.

Another amazing example is: Microsoft Rewards

Microsoft Rewards is a program that incentivizes users to engage with Microsoft products and services. Users can earn points for completing tasks, including taking surveys. These points can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, such as gift cards or Xbox subscriptions. Microsoft's gamified approach not only boosts survey response rates but also enhances user engagement with their ecosystem.

8. Timing and frequency management

The timing of your survey invitations can significantly impact response rates. Send survey invitations at times when your audience is most likely to be available and receptive.

Avoid over-surveying your audience by carefully managing the frequency of survey requests. Bombarding respondents with surveys can lead to survey fatigue and reduced participation.

For example: Airbnb's Post-Stay Surveys

Airbnb strategically times their post-stay surveys to maximize response rates. They send these surveys shortly after a guest's stay, capitalizing on the guest's recent experience while it's still fresh in their memory. This timing increases the likelihood of guests providing feedback, as they can easily recall their stay details.

Another amazing example is SurveyMonkey's "One-Question Surveys":

SurveyMonkey, a leading survey software platform, introduced "One-Question Surveys" as a way to reduce survey fatigue and increase response rates. Instead of sending long surveys, they send single, concise questions at the right moments. This approach respects the users' time and attention, resulting in higher response rates and more actionable insights.

9. Feedback loop and actionable insights

Show your commitment to making meaningful changes based on survey feedback. Communicate how survey responses will be used to improve products, services, or processes. Share previous survey-driven improvements as a demonstration of your commitment.

When respondents see that their input leads to positive changes, they are more likely to participate in future surveys.

For example: Apple's iOS Feedback App

Apple provides iOS users with a built-in Feedback app that allows them to submit comments, suggestions, and bug reports directly to Apple's development team. What sets this apart is that Apple often responds to user feedback with updates and fixes. This feedback loop demonstrates that user input is valued and acted upon, encouraging more users to provide feedback.

Another amazing example is Uber's "Driver Advisory Council":

Uber established a "Driver Advisory Council" where they regularly meet with a group of drivers to discuss concerns and improvements. This initiative gives drivers a direct voice in the company's decision-making process. By actively involving drivers in shaping the platform, Uber increases their survey response rates and fosters a sense of ownership and loyalty among their driver-partners.

10. Surprise and delight campaigns

Surprise and delight campaigns can be a fun and effective way to incentivize survey participation. Randomly select respondents to receive unexpected rewards, exclusive offers, or personalized thank-you messages. These surprise elements can create a positive association with your surveys, increasing the likelihood of participation and a positive response.

11. Community engagement and user forums

Building a sense of community around your brand or product can foster a culture of participation. Establish user forums or online communities where customers can discuss their experiences and provide feedback.

Encourage forum members to participate in surveys by emphasizing their role in shaping the brand or product's future. Engaging with a passionate user community can yield valuable insights and higher survey response rates.

For example: Reddit's "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) Sessions

Reddit's "Ask Me Anything" (AMA) sessions are a unique way to engage with users and gather feedback. Celebrities, experts, and even company representatives host AMAs, where they answer questions and engage in discussions with the Reddit community.

Companies can use a similar approach to host open forums or Q&A sessions where they invite users to ask questions and provide feedback. These interactive sessions can generate valuable insights and encourage users to participate in surveys and discussions.

12. Collaborative product development

Involve your audience in the product development process. Seek their input on new features, designs, or innovations. When respondents feel that their opinions directly influence the products or services they use, they are more likely to engage in surveys related to these topics.

Collaborative product development boosts response rates and fosters a sense of ownership and loyalty among participants.

For example: LEGO “Ideas” Platform

LEGO's "Ideas" platform allows fans to submit their own designs for potential LEGO sets. Users can vote on their favorite designs, and if a design receives enough votes, LEGO considers producing it as an official set. This collaborative approach engages the LEGO community and serves as a form of feedback collection.

Users actively provide input on which sets should be made, leading to high engagement and a strong sense of ownership. Brands in various industries can implement similar platforms or campaigns involving customers in product development, encouraging them to provide feedback through surveys and voting mechanisms.

13. Audio and voice surveys

Audio and voice surveys are innovative tools that gather feedback through spoken responses. They offer inclusivity for diverse demographics, foster natural conversations, and enable multilingual capabilities. These surveys engage respondents effectively, making them ideal for gathering real-time insights, customer satisfaction assessments, and political polling.

For example: Spotify's "Spotify Voice" Feedback Feature

Spotify introduced a "Spotify Voice" feature that allows users to provide feedback through voice recordings. Instead of typing out their thoughts, users can record their comments or suggestions, which are then analyzed by Spotify's algorithms.

This approach caters to users who prefer verbal communication and makes the feedback process more interactive and engaging. Brands can explore incorporating audio and voice surveys to offer a unique and convenient way for users to share their opinions.

These unique ideas leverage collaborative product development and innovative survey formats like voice feedback to boost survey response rates and engage users in more creative and interactive ways.

Case study: How Ottum Research & Consulting increased survey response rates with Xoxoday?

Ottum Research & Consulting, a prominent market research firm, recognized the need to enhance its survey rewards system, which had traditionally been a manual and resource-intensive process. Brian Ottum, a customer insights and analytics expert, had conducted numerous surveys in the past, each accompanied by survey rewards.

However, the previous approach involved multiple challenges:

1. Manual procurement and distribution: Ottum's team had to manually procure rewards, communicate with vendors, and physically ship rewards to individual respondents. This was not only time-consuming but also costly.
2. Limited integration: Although surveys were conducted using SurveyMonkey, there was a lack of seamless integration for managing rewards, resulting in operational inefficiencies.
3. Error-prone tracking: Maintaining and updating records manually led to a higher likelihood of errors and logistical issues.
4. Poor redemption experience: The manual fulfillment process meant that respondents had to wait for their rewards, leading to a less-than-optimal redemption experience.

When faced with the task of gathering insights from a panel of 200 professionals for a new training course, Brian Ottum decided it was time to automate and digitize the rewards process. Ottum Research & Consulting turned to the Xoxoday Plum and SurveyMonkey integration to address these challenges.

Here's how they automated their survey rewards system with Xoxoday Plum:

1. Native integration: With Xoxoday Plum's native integration with SurveyMonkey, Ottum's team could seamlessly manage survey rewards. This integration simplified the entire process.
2. Flexible reward options: The team had the flexibility to choose the brand, currency, and denomination of rewards from Xoxoday Plum's extensive global catalog. They opted for $20 Amazon gift cards to provide respondents with a meaningful incentive.
3. Instant delivery: Respondents received their Amazon gift cards instantly upon completing the survey. This instant gratification significantly improved the survey response experience and cooperation.
4. Workflow automation: Xoxoday Plum allowed Ottum's team to set up workflows and triggers, optimizing the overall survey experience. This automation saved valuable time and reduced manual intervention.
5. Cost efficiency: Xoxoday Plum's value-based pricing, which charges only on reward redemption and eliminates distribution costs, led to a cost reduction of $1000 for the campaign.

What's next?

Ottum Research & Consulting's survey campaign proved successful, enabling them to gather the necessary responses and insights for their new training course. They distributed over a hundred rewards through Plum across the United States. Encouraged by this success, they plan to expand their usage of Plum rewards in future survey campaigns across different sales and marketing verticals, building upon the efficiency and effectiveness of their automated rewards system.

Conclusion

Increasing survey response rates is essential for obtaining accurate and valuable data from your target audience. You can significantly improve your survey's chances of success by crafting a compelling introduction, keeping your survey short and focused, using smart question design, offering incentives, and utilizing multiple distribution channels.

Remember that a well-executed survey not only collects data but also fosters trust and engagement with your audience, which can have long-lasting benefits for your organization.