How Surveys contribute to ERG success

A 2023 article by SHRM found that 70% of employees in companies with active Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) feel more valued and engaged. Though ERGs are led by passionate ERG leads and managers, members can become disengaged over time and ERG membership numbers can stagnate. At such times, well-crafted surveys can act like a compass, revealing the needs, aspirations, and even frustrations of their members. 

Let’s understand how surveys, when utilized effectively, can contribute to ERG success.

1. Identifying Needs

Surveys act as a megaphone, amplifying the silent whispers of the underrepresented. A 2022 report by Deloitte revealed that 60% of LGBTQ+ employees believe their company needs to improve its inclusion efforts. If ERG Leads would ask for policy-related feedback from members of the LGBTQ+ ERG using anonymous surveys, they would uncover actionable insights on how to improve inclusion. Similarly, targeted surveys can be used to understand specific needs such as mentorship programs for women in tech or career development workshops for neurodivergent colleagues.

2. Measuring Impact

Numbers quantify the impact of ERG initiatives. Did that mental health awareness workshop truly resonate? Did the networking event foster meaningful connections? Surveys, with their pre-event and post-event data, provide tangible evidence of success, allowing ERGs to refine their efforts and showcase their value to the organization. By floating surveys immediately after an event, timely and accurate feedback can be recorded.

3. Building Trust

Surveys foster a two-way dialogue. When ERGs actively seek feedback through surveys, they demonstrate their commitment to member needs. This builds trust and encourages participation, creating a virtuous cycle of engagement and improvement. A study by the SHRM found that 85% of employees who participate in ERGs believe they make a positive impact on the company culture.

4. Aligning with Company Goals

ERGs aren't isolated islands; they are bridges connecting diverse voices to the broader organizational mission. Surveys help ERGs align their initiatives with company goals. Did the diversity training program improve employee retention, as the CEO hoped? Did the community service project boost the company's social responsibility image? Data-driven insights from surveys allow ERGs to demonstrate their strategic value and secure continued support from leadership.

Conducting surveys can also create value for the organization as a whole.

Enhanced Diversity and Inclusion

ERGs, powered by surveys, become catalysts for positive change within the company culture. Their data-driven insights inform diversity and inclusion initiatives, highlighting unconscious biases, identifying cultural roadblocks, and paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive workplace for everyone.

Better Employee Engagement and Productivity

Happy employees are productive employees. By addressing the specific needs of diverse groups through ERG initiatives informed by surveys, companies foster a sense of belonging and engagement, leading to higher morale, increased productivity, and reduced turnover.

Improved Employer Brand and Talent Acquisition

In today's competitive talent market, companies with strong ERGs and a demonstrably inclusive culture stand out. Surveys help ERGs showcase their impact and attract top talent from diverse backgrounds, giving the company a significant edge in the war for talent.

The Synergy Effect of ERG Surveys

The true power of surveys lies in the synergy they create. When ERG managers, armed with data-driven insights, work collaboratively with company leadership, the results can be transformative. Imagine an organization where ERGs, based on survey feedback, champion initiatives that not only empower their members but also align seamlessly with the company's strategic goals. ERG management software platforms like Teleskope have in-built features such as anonymous surveys that can be tailored to survey specific ERG members as well as non-ERG members.

The journey to a truly inclusive and diverse workplace is paved with data, and surveys are the map that guides the way.