In today’s complex and fast-changing working world, many forward-thinking organisations are reimagining how they listen to employees. Best-in-class employee experience (EX) now includes regular listening, so organisations are attuned to how colleagues are feeling in real time, not just at survey season.
Why listen more?
Organisations are listening more because the world around them demands it. Transformation, disruption, and hybrid working models require a deeper, more agile understanding of employee sentiment. Regular listening allows organisations to sense change earlier, manage transitions more smoothly, and build trust—especially in periods of uncertainty.
Technology plays a crucial role here—enabling real-time data collection and analysis across large, dispersed workforces. But effective listening isn’t just a technological challenge—it’s a strategic one. The most impactful listening strategies are designed intentionally, with clear goals, follow-through, and an honest look at what’s realistic for your organisation today.
There’s no one-size-fits-all listening strategy
These strategies often include some version of continuous listening – the EX practice of regularly gathering and responding to colleague feedback to improve their time at work. It’s not about always-on surveys or a flood of pulse polls, but about building a connected listening ecosystem—a blend of surveys, conversations, qualitative feedback, and passive data.
Done well it provides a rich, dynamic picture of the employee experience, shifting from a reactive approach to a responsive one - from isolated data points to a meaningful, dynamic flow of insights and dialogue.
But while continuous listening works for many, it’s not the only solution. Every organisation has unique structures, capabilities, and levels of EX maturity, and they need listening options that match those unique qualities.
A high-frequency survey model that works for one business might overwhelm another, for example, demanding a different pace of listening. Or an organisation might have hard-to-reach remote or offline populations, who may need a more in-person solution. The key is designing a strategy that reflects your current context while building in space to grow.
It's about meeting your organisation where it is today, with clear and sensible progression steps to evolve your approach over time. Whether you're just starting to centralise your efforts or looking to embed more continuous, connected listening, your strategy should reflect both your current reality and your future ambition.
Key questions to assess your listening strategy
If you’re reviewing your current approach, ask:
- How well and how often are we listening now - and where do we want to get to?
- Are we generating real insights or just gathering data?
- How do we act on the things our employees tell us?
- Are we reaching every group in ways that work for them?
- Are we investing in the capability, leadership and systems needed for this to succeed?
Are you set up for survey success?
Whether you’re early in your listening journey, or you're ready to take the next step, we’re here to help you find the right approach for your organisation.
Sign up for a free 60-minute Survey Surgery session and let’s explore how to optimise your listening strategy for success.
Joshua Reed
