Free Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Survey
50+ Expert Crafted Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Survey Questions
Measure your organization's diversity, equity, and inclusion to pinpoint gaps, boost engagement, and foster a culture where everyone belongs. A DEI survey collects honest feedback on representation, fairness, and belonging, providing actionable insights that drive meaningful change. Download our free template - preloaded with example questions and response aggregation byPage for easy analysis - and if you need a custom approach, head over to our form builder.
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Top Secrets for an Essential Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Survey
Launching a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion survey is more than a checkbox - it's a commitment to understanding what makes your team thrive. A well-crafted survey uncovers hidden biases, reveals untapped strengths, and builds trust. According to a study in JAMA Network Open, defining key terms upfront boosts response accuracy by up to 20%.
Start by defining "equity" and "inclusion" clearly. Use consensus-driven items like those developed via a Delphi panel in academic research. Ask concrete questions such as "What barriers to inclusion have you experienced at work?" or "Which diversity initiatives make you feel valued?" This clarity sets a strong foundation for actionable insights. Explore our Diversity and Inclusion Survey to see real examples.
Imagine a mid-size tech startup gearing up for its first DEI poll. They kept instructions short, used plain language, and offered an open comment box for suggestions. Within two weeks, they collected 85% participation and uncovered a need for mentorship programs. That level of insight turns data into real change.
For further inspiration, check out the 27 DEI Survey Questions To Include in Your 2025 Survey by AIHR. Integrate 5 - 10 targeted items on culture, belonging, and support. Sample prompt: "What do you value most about our current allyship programs?" Keep it brief - survey length matters.
5 Must-Know Tips for Transforming Your DEI Survey Today
Even the best intentions can stumble if a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion survey uses vague language or skips vital context. A Drive Research guide warns that 60% of DEI surveys fail due to unclear questions or lack of anonymity. That leads to low response rates and skewed insights. Avoid jargon and keep your audience front and center.
Overloading employees with 50+ questions is a fast track to survey fatigue. Instead, pilot your survey with a small focus group. Ask a concise question like "How supported do you feel in discussing race and gender at work?" Then refine based on feedback. A smooth rollout builds trust.
Skipping the follow-up plan is a critical misstep. After collecting responses, share a summary of findings and next steps. For example, SunnyCo GmbH published its DEI report within a week and saw a 15% boost in team engagement. Transparency fuels credibility.
Tap into frameworks like the Diversity Engagement Survey (NCBI PMC) for proven metrics. Leverage targeted tools like our Workplace Diversity Survey templates to align with industry best practices. Always close with "What barriers limit your sense of belonging?" to pinpoint next steps.
Recruitment and Hiring Questions
Our Recruitment and Hiring Questions focus on evaluating the fairness and inclusivity of your talent acquisition process. By understanding candidate experiences and sourcing diversity, you can strengthen your employer brand Workplace Diversity Survey . These insights help align hiring practices with organizational values.
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How well does our job posting language reflect inclusive terminology?
This question identifies whether our job descriptions use unbiased language that attracts a broad range of candidates. Clear inclusive language can reduce unintentional barriers and improve candidate diversity.
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How diverse was the candidate slate for your most recent position?
This measures representation across gender, race, and other demographics to spot sourcing gaps. A diverse slate increases chances of equitable hiring and widens talent pools.
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How accessible was our application platform for all candidates?
This assesses the usability of our digital tools for people with disabilities or limited technical skills. Improving accessibility ensures no qualified candidate is excluded.
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Did you encounter any biased screening or assessment methods?
This uncovers potential discrimination during resume review or testing. Identifying bias helps refine selection criteria for fairness.
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How transparent were our compensation bands during recruitment?
Transparency in pay scales reduces inequity concerns and builds trust with candidates. It also signals a commitment to fair compensation practices.
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Did you feel supported to disclose accommodation needs?
This gauges whether candidates felt safe requesting adjustments for interviews. A supportive process demonstrates respect for diverse needs.
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Was diversity represented among interview panel members?
This explores if interviewers reflected a range of backgrounds and perspectives. Diverse panels can reduce unconscious bias in evaluations.
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How effective was our outreach to underrepresented groups?
This evaluates recruitment channels and partnerships aimed at diverse communities. Effective outreach broadens applicant pools and promotes equity.
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Were you informed about our DEI commitments during recruitment?
This checks if candidates received clear information on diversity and inclusion initiatives. Early visibility of DEI efforts can influence acceptance decisions.
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How satisfied are you with the timeliness of communication throughout the hiring process?
Timely updates demonstrate respect and transparency for all applicants. Consistent communication improves candidate experience and employer reputation.
Workplace Culture and Inclusion Questions
These Workplace Culture and Inclusion Questions aim to measure how supported employees feel in expressing their identities and engaging with peers. Gathering feedback on daily interactions promotes a positive environment Culture Survey . The goal is to foster belonging and collaboration.
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How comfortable do you feel expressing your authentic self at work?
This question assesses psychological safety and the presence of an inclusive atmosphere. A comfortable environment boosts engagement and retention.
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Have you observed inclusive behavior modeled by your colleagues?
Observing peer behaviors indicates the strength of everyday inclusion. Positive role models encourage widespread adoption.
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Do you feel your ideas are valued regardless of background?
This reveals if diverse perspectives are solicited and respected in decision-making. Valued input drives innovation and problem-solving.
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How effectively does your team handle multicultural collaboration?
This explores interpersonal dynamics across different cultures and communication styles. Effective collaboration minimizes misunderstandings and enriches outcomes.
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Are diversity celebrations and cultural events supported in your department?
This checks if cultural awareness is integrated into team activities. Visible support signals inclusivity and respect.
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Do you receive recognition for contributions that reflect diverse perspectives?
Recognition of diverse contributions fosters an environment where uniqueness is appreciated. This encourages continued engagement.
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How fairly are team assignments distributed among all employees?
Fair distribution prevents favoritism and promotes equal growth opportunities. Balanced assignments help in skill development across demographics.
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Have you experienced or witnessed exclusionary remarks?
This identifies incidents that undermine a culture of respect. Addressing such behaviors promptly maintains a safe workplace.
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Do you feel comfortable providing feedback on team dynamics?
This assesses open communication channels and trust levels. Comfort in feedback loops strengthens team cohesion.
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How inclusive are your team's decision-making processes?
This measures involvement of diverse voices in key decisions. Inclusive processes result in more equitable outcomes.
Leadership and Accountability Questions
Our Leadership and Accountability Questions are designed to evaluate leaders' commitment to DEI and their follow-through on policies. Insights here guide improvement in management practices and structures Employee Survey . Leadership accountability is vital for lasting cultural change.
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To what extent do leaders model inclusive behaviors?
This assesses if leadership practices reflect stated DEI values. Role modeling by leaders encourages organization-wide adoption.
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Do you trust leadership to address incidents of discrimination promptly?
Trust in responsiveness ensures employees feel protected and valued. Timely action demonstrates genuine commitment.
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How transparent are leaders about DEI goals and progress?
Transparency in objectives and metrics fosters collective ownership. Clear reporting helps measure success over time.
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Are managers equipped to handle DEI-related conversations?
This evaluates training and confidence levels among supervisors. Properly trained managers facilitate constructive dialogues.
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Do you feel leadership holds teams accountable for inclusive outcomes?
Accountability mechanisms drive continuous improvement and adherence to policies. This ensures DEI remains a priority.
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How often do leaders solicit feedback on inclusion efforts?
Regular feedback loops highlight areas for refinement. Active soliciting demonstrates openness to change.
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Have leaders communicated consequences for non-inclusive behavior?
Clear consequences reinforce organizational standards. This deters future incidents and maintains trust.
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Do you see resources allocated to DEI initiatives?
Visible investment signals prioritization and legitimacy of DEI work. Adequate resources enable sustainable programs.
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How well do leaders integrate diverse perspectives into strategic planning?
This explores inclusion at the highest decision-making levels. Integrated perspectives lead to more robust strategies.
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Are leadership DEI commitments reflected in performance reviews?
Incorporating DEI in evaluations reinforces its importance in daily responsibilities. This drives behavioral change over time.
Equity and Accessibility Questions
These Equity and Accessibility Questions examine whether systems and policies ensure fair treatment and access for all employees. Assessing structural barriers via a Race and Ethnicity Survey approach highlights where improvements are needed. Equity and access lay the foundation for inclusion.
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Are promotions and raises distributed equitably across demographic groups?
This measures fairness in career advancement and compensation. Equitable progression reinforces trust in organizational systems.
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Do you have access to the tools and accommodations needed for your role?
This assesses whether physical and digital workspaces support diverse needs. Adequate accommodations improve performance and inclusion.
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How fair are the resource allocation processes in your department?
This explores whether budgets, staffing, and support are equitably shared. Fair allocation prevents marginalization of any group.
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Are company policies applied consistently to all employees?
This checks for equal enforcement of rules and standards. Consistency strengthens organizational integrity.
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Do you feel barriers exist for remote or hybrid work arrangements?
This identifies challenges in flexible work models that may affect certain groups. Addressing barriers promotes inclusive work practices.
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How accessible are training and career development opportunities?
This gauges equal access to upskilling and mentorship. Accessibility in development supports long-term equity.
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Have you encountered digital accessibility issues in your tools?
This identifies technical obstacles that exclude employees with disabilities. Resolving issues fosters an inclusive digital environment.
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Do you believe disciplinary actions are applied impartially?
This evaluates fairness in handling misconduct or performance issues. Impartial processes maintain morale and trust.
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How well do our systems accommodate different work styles and needs?
This explores flexibility for diverse work preferences. Adaptive systems enhance productivity and satisfaction.
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Are equity audits or reviews conducted regularly?
Regular audits reveal systemic biases or gaps in policies. Continuous review is essential for sustained equity.
Training and Development Questions
Our Training and Development Questions evaluate the effectiveness and reach of DEI learning initiatives. Feedback through a Diversity Survey lens ensures programs meet employee needs. Strong development supports a culture of continuous inclusion.
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How effective was your recent DEI training session?
This assesses whether the content was engaging and actionable. Effectiveness ensures knowledge translates into behavior change.
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Did the training cover unconscious bias in practical scenarios?
This checks for real-world applicability of bias concepts. Practical examples improve understanding and retention.
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Were you given opportunities to practice inclusive communication?
This explores interactive components that reinforce learning. Practice sessions build confidence for real interactions.
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How accessible are ongoing DEI resources and materials?
This evaluates availability of follow-up content such as e-learning and guides. Accessible resources support ongoing learning.
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Do you feel supported to apply training lessons in your daily work?
This measures reinforcement through coaching or peer support. Application support bridges training and practice.
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Have you been offered mentorship or sponsorship opportunities?
This assesses the presence of structured support for career growth. Mentorship networks increase representation in leadership.
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How relevant are leadership DEI workshops to your role?
This checks if training aligns with managers' responsibilities. Relevant content ensures buy-in and meaningful participation.
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Do you receive feedback on your inclusion and teamwork skills?
This explores performance discussions around interpersonal competencies. Feedback drives continuous personal development.
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Have you been encouraged to attend external DEI conferences or events?
This assesses support for professional growth beyond internal programs. External exposure brings fresh perspectives back to the company.
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How well does our learning platform track your DEI progress?
This measures the ability to monitor completion, impact, and skill acquisition. Effective tracking helps tailor future learning paths.