How We Conduct Volunteer Surveys 🧡 🐾

Why we ask volunteers for feedback

Volunteers are the lifeblood of TailsPal. Their firsthand experience reveals what works well and what needs improvement in shelter operations, outreach and volunteer coordination. Surveys let us gather structured feedback to make practical changes that benefit animals and people.

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Goals and planning

Start by defining the purpose: assess training, understand reasons people stop volunteering, or collect ideas for shift scheduling. Plan who to survey (newcomers, regulars, past volunteers), when to run it, and how long responses should take.

• List the key questions you need answered.
• Decide on timing and frequency that won’t overwhelm volunteers.

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Channels and formats

We use multiple channels to reach different groups:

• Online forms (short, mobile-friendly) for structured responses.
• Quick polls in messaging apps after events.
• Paper forms on-site where digital access is limited.
• Short face-to-face interviews for deeper insights.

Match the format to the audience: a very short mobile survey for on-call volunteers, longer forms for coordinators.

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Designing questions

Effective surveys use clear, simple questions in a logical order.

• Combine closed questions (scales, multiple choice) with 1–2 open fields for comments.
• Avoid double-barreled and leading questions.
• Pilot the survey with a small group to check clarity and length.

Short surveys (about 5–10 minutes) usually get higher completion rates.

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Ethics and data protection

Always explain the purpose of the survey and how responses will be stored. Offer anonymity when appropriate. Store data securely, restrict access, and delete personal data on request.

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Encouraging participation

To boost response rates:

• Keep the survey short and mobile-friendly.
• Explain how results will be used and what changes may follow.
• Thank respondents and publish a brief summary of findings.
• Offer non-monetary incentives: recognition, involvement in follow-up decisions, small tokens at events.

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Analysis and taking action

Start with simple quantitative summaries: percentages and average scores. Code open-ended responses by theme to surface common issues and ideas. Use findings to create a short action plan with responsibilities and timelines.

Closing the feedback loop

Share key takeaways and next steps with volunteers. Transparency builds trust and increases willingness to participate in future surveys.

Conclusion

Volunteer surveys are a practical tool for TailsPal to listen, learn and improve. If you have suggestions for future questions or want to help test a survey, get in touch with your local coordinator.