How ERG Surveys Help You Make Data-Driven Decisions

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.

Understand What Members Need Most

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.

Measure ERG Success with Data, Not Assumptions

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.

Build Trust and Increase ERG Engagement

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.

Prove ERG Value to Leadership and Secure Support

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.

How ERG Surveys Benefit the Entire Organization

Conducting surveys can also create value for the organization as a whole.The insights help shape policies, strengthen workplace culture, and align diversity efforts with business goals.

Drive Meaningful Change in 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.

Foster a More Engaged and Productive Workforce

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.

Attract and Retain Top Talent

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.

10 Must-Ask ERG Survey Questions

Asking the right questions in ERG surveys helps evaluate engagement, measure impact, and align ERGs with employee and business needs. The following questions provide clear insights that can guide decision-making and improve ERG effectiveness.

1. How often do you participate in ERG meetings, events, or discussions?

2. Has this ERG helped you build meaningful professional or personal connections?

3. How often do you hear about ERG initiatives or updates?

4. Has participating in this ERG positively impacted your career growth or skill development?

5. How well does this ERG reflect and support diverse perspectives within its community?

6. How likely are you to recommend ERG membership to a colleague?

7. Do you feel that company leadership supports this ERG and takes action based on its feedback?

8. What type of ERG programming or resources would be most valuable to you?

9. What is one thing this ERG could change or improve to make a bigger impact?

10. Do you feel this ERG provides the support you need to thrive in your career at this company?

    
    

Using ERG Surveys to Drive Real Change

The best way to make ERGs stronger is to listen to the people they serve. ERG surveys provide the insights needed to take action, drive impact, and prove the value of ERG programs—for employees and the company.

When ERG leaders share insights with leadership, it leads to stronger policies, better programs, and company-wide alignment.

ERG management platforms like Teleskope make gathering and analyzing feedback easy. With anonymous and customizable surveys, ERG leaders get the insights they need to make a real difference. Book a free demo to see it in action.