ShareYourGroupShareYourGroupGroup Polls

Ten poll mistakes and how to avoid them

The common errors in group polls, from leading questions to no closing date, with a fix for each.

  1. A leading question. Use neutral words.
  2. Two questions in one. Make two polls.
  3. Too many options. Four or five is plenty.
  4. No closing date. Set one and say it.
  5. No "other" option. Add it where it helps.
  6. Sharing in the wrong place. Share where the people are.
  7. Sharing too often. Once, plus one reminder.
  8. Ignoring the result. Then do not ask.
  9. Using it for elections or prizes. A poll here is informal.
  10. Not thanking people. A short thank-you keeps the group willing.

Start with how to run a fair poll.

Keep going