On-line surveys are efficient and provide an up-to-date and convenient way of interacting with many different interest groups. On-line surveys provide all the benefits of the internet without the programming. Here are ten good reasons why on-line surveys should be part of every marketeers’ arsenal::
1. Anyone can participate
Once the survey is published on-line it is simple to promote it. This is achieved through e-mail (with a link provided) or via a link from a website or referenced by other forms of advertising. Participants who have the link can go instantly to the survey, at a time that’s convenient to them, 24x7.
2. Subtly does it
Surveys can be used to associate a product with positive attributes. By listing the many features of a product and asking the respondent how important they are, regardless of their response, the product will be associated with the features; if they are rated as important the positive impact is endorsed by the customer.
3. Easy to use
Anyone can do it. Just provide us with a list of questions. We will format the on-line survey and then send you an email or web link for you to distribute. You will then be able to monitor the surveys' progress and interrogate specific responses simply by visiting a URL we provide.
4. It’s more economic than the conventional approach
You save on stationery, printing and postage and its easier for your target audience.
Useful information harvested from surveys can be used/exploited in marketing and PR campaigns thus making it a very efficient form of information gathering.
5. We’ve all got an opinion – and we like to express it
Customers like surveys – they’re not seen as spam, but as an empowering opportunity to make their voice heard and a chance to have an impact on a brand. Surveys can be particularly good for broaching sensitive subjects with concerned employees; a survey questioning a workforce on their opinion of change allows the key issues to be raised in a positive manner and encourages employee participation. Online surveys allow the message to reach each individual and invite feedback in a manageable form.
6 . Fresh topics engage interest
Thinking laterally is a lively and imaginative approach to surveys that can provide the ‘hook’ to engage respondents. The survey subject can be focused on a particular group or on a subject close to theirs hearts. The survey’s marketing message can take the form of a simple brand awareness message by stating that ‘this survey was sponsored by brand name’, or by finding a link from the subject matter to the product – something that is surprisingly easy and highly effective.
Discover the benefits of including in your website a Public Survey section. Many people who enjoy completing crosswords and doing word puzzles will also enjoy completing surveys. Having a public survey notice board as part of a website is a low cost and automated method that helps to increase traffic and establish a loyal following. Unlike discussion boards there is no opportunity for people to disrupt the site by making inappropriate remarks as the survey results are displayed in summary form enabling companies to dispense with moderators and maintenance.
7. Make an impression on respondents
You can catch a customers' attention with an advertisement but this may not leave a lasting impression in their minds. Surveys actively engage respondents, who think about the questions before giving their response.
8. It’s not just about selling
A survey is an effective, quick and easy way of promoting and gaining acceptance for a difficult proposal - this could be a public body trying to gain acceptance and support for a particular scheme.
Take the example of a city trying to gain support from the general public for their bid to host a future Olympic Games. A survey can explain the benefits thereby putting the respondent in a much better position to appreciate what the real advantages are. This approach might just combat any negative headlines. As well as promoting the cause, useful feedback is obtained and can be used to fine tune the overall marketing strategy.
9. If you like this, you’ll love…
Perhaps one of the strongest elements in a survey is the ability to make inspired or useful connections instantly to other areas. By including links within the survey to websites that offer detailed information you are able to reinforce the marketing message.
10. Beautiful relationships start here
It needn’t all end at the survey has been completed. While you have respondents' attention and their interest, you can ask if they want to sign up to receive more information or a regular newsletter. Thus you make the most of the opportunity.