200: The Role of Surveys: Shaping Our Business Strategies

As creative entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves wondering what our audience wants—what they’re thinking, needing, or hoping we’ll create next. In this episode, I share one of the most powerful tools we use to stop guessing and start knowing: surveys. You'll hear exactly how we ask meaningful questions, the specific ones we rely on, and how we design surveys that lead to clear and confident decision-making.

The episode begins with a funny (and humbling) story about a yacht surprise gone sideways. It’s a lighthearted reminder of how important it is to ask the right questions before making decisions, whether big or small. From there, I walk through three detailed examples of how surveys have shaped key areas of our business this past year: email newsletters, product development, and live events.

You’ll learn how one simple survey question led to a major new feature in our Pattern Plus membership, how asking about newsletter cadence brought instant clarity, and how we use post-event feedback to improve each year’s conference. I also share the framework we use to build surveys that are simple, specific, and impactful—along with the tools and practices that help us get great results.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about what your audience wants or needs, this episode will show you just how easy and effective it can be to ask. You don’t have to wonder. You just have to ask.

If you're wondering, it's time to survey.

Key Takeaways

• A timely survey can uncover blind spots, confirm your assumptions, or completely redirect your approach.
  
• Short, focused surveys (2 to 5 questions) are more effective and easier for people to complete.
  
• Open-ended questions like “What’s one tool that would simplify your workflow?” can yield highly consistent and actionable feedback.
  
• Post-project team surveys are just as important as those sent to your audience.
• Always express appreciation when someone takes time to respond—it builds trust and strengthens your community.

Recommended Resources

• Kit–our preferred email service provider
• Google Forms
• Typeform
• Bonnie Christine Newsletters

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