Designing your first Employee Experience (EX) survey can feel overwhelming. What do you ask? How much is too much? How do you get honest answers?

The truth is, you don't need hundreds of questions. You need the right questions — ones that open up honest reflection, uncover root causes, and build a foundation for action.

Here are the top 10 questions to include in your first EX survey, based on best practices and our experience with the VALUE Method™.

1. "I understand how my work contributes to the organisation's goals."

Why it matters: Purpose fuels engagement. When employees see meaning in their work, they invest more of themselves.

2. "I have the resources and support I need to do my job well."

Why it matters: No amount of motivation can overcome broken systems. This question highlights practical barriers early.

3. "I feel recognised for my contributions."

Why it matters: Regular, genuine recognition is a core driver of morale, retention, and performance.

4. "I trust the leadership team to lead the organisation effectively."

Why it matters: Trust in leadership predicts resilience during change and uncertainty.

5. "I feel a sense of belonging at work."

Why it matters: Belonging isn't a "nice to have" — it's foundational for psychological safety, innovation, and wellbeing.

6. "My manager supports my professional development."

Why it matters: Career growth conversations are a critical part of retaining top talent.

7. "I feel safe to speak up with ideas, questions, or concerns."

Why it matters: Psychological safety underpins learning cultures and continuous improvement.

8. "I believe actions will be taken as a result of this survey."

Why it matters: This question measures trust in the feedback process itself — and sets accountability expectations.

9. "Overall, how would you describe your experience working here?" (Open text)

Why it matters: Numbers are powerful, but stories bring depth. Open-ended responses often reveal insights you never thought to ask. See how the right questions lead to higher EX survey response rates.

10. "What one thing would make the biggest positive difference to your experience here?" (Open text)

Why it matters: This question prioritises actionable feedback, cutting through noise to what matters most.

Pro Tips for Using These Questions

• Tailor to your context: Some industries, geographies, or workforce demographics may require slight adaptations.

• Keep it concise: Resist the urge to add "just a few more" questions. Better a short, complete survey than a long, abandoned one. Build stronger surveys by following these key design principles.

• Communicate clearly: Let employees know why you're asking, what you'll do next, and when they'll hear back.

Example: Getting It Right the First Time

A small professional services firm launching their first EX survey used questions very similar to these. Response rates topped 85%, and leadership was able to focus quickly on two priority areas: manager development and internal communications.

By acting visibly within 90 days, they reinforced trust — and set the stage for deeper listening in future cycles.

Final Thought: Start Simple, Listen Deeply

Your first EX survey doesn't have to be perfect. It has to be honest, intentional, and actionable.