4 Questions for Successful Events

Evaluating an event can be a drag. Many involve asking lots of questions that drag the meeting out forever or, worse, no questions where everyone asks “So … what do you think?” Also, for events that did not go well, evaluations can easily turn into a gripe or blame session.

But evaluations are important. If not done we repeat what doesn’t work or worse we fail to repeat what does work! Even if the event is considered an abysmal failure asking what works can give future insight for other events.

We ask four questions to keep the meeting from going on forever and give people focus:
– What worked?
– What didn’t work?
– What was missing?
– What was confusing?

I put all four on a white-board and people contribute as they recall answers. As input is given it will spark other ideas and input.

General guidelines:
– Do this as a group. While possible by email it is more effective in a group. Unfortunately, getting people together for a meeting is difficult. This can be overcome by planning the meeting right after the event letting them know it will only be about 20 minutes.
– Keep it positive. Make sure people fill in the “What worked?” section. Even if very little worked, something worked. Make sure they point it out. It’s easy to see nothing but problems even with a great event.
– Look for answers not just problems. Pointing out problems is NOT a spiritual gift. If the conversation doesn’t present answers ask “How can we do better in the future?” or suggest “Let’s get on the solution side of this for a moment.”
– Invite the right people. Events include dozens of volunteers. Don’t invite every single one of them. Invite those who understand guidelines #2 & 3. If it;s only one person, meet with them. At most, six.

And last, use it! All that information is pointless if not utilized at the next event.

Please share some ways that you encourage feedback after your events.