Root Cause
Survey
Organizational growth depends on listening—not just to scores, but to the stories behind them. The Root Cause Survey helps uncover what truly drives disengagement, dissatisfaction, or emotional strain—by inviting employees to explain why certain experiences fall short. It adds depth, empathy, and actionable insight to every survey.
What is the Root Cause Survey?
Root cause questions activate only when an employee gives a negative response to a key item. They are designed to follow up with a short set of targeted prompts—open-ended or scaled—that explore the reasons behind that response. This layered feedback approach reveals what’s not working, why it matters, and how leaders can respond—turning silent frustration into clear direction for improvement.
What does the Root Cause Survey measure?
01.
Hidden Barriers to Success
When employees report low experiences of achievement or growth, root cause questions explore what’s holding them back. Whether it’s lack of clarity, poor feedback, or mismatched roles, these responses reveal where individuals feel blocked from reaching their full potential.
68
%
68% of employees who leave voluntarily say no one ever asked them why they were unhappy.
– IBM Smarter Workforce Institute
5
X
Organizations that analyze open-ended employee feedback are 5 times more likely to identify actionable solutions.
– Qualtrics Employee Experience Trends
64
%
64% of HR leaders say traditional surveys miss the root causes behind low scores and disengagement.
– HR Research Institute
How does a Root Cause Survey benefit your organization?
Expose the “Why” Behind the Scores
Root cause questions go beyond surface-level responses to uncover the deeper reasons behind dissatisfaction. They help explain what’s driving low engagement, poor experiences, or unmet expectations—turning numbers into meaningful insight.
Give Employees a Voice
By asking follow-up questions when people respond negatively, the survey empowers employees to express themselves fully. It sends a powerful message: your experience matters, and we want to understand it.
Detect Patterns Before They Escalate
The survey highlights recurring issues that might otherwise go unnoticed—like unclearexpectations, toxic behaviors, or broken systems. Spotting these patterns early helps prevent deeper cultural or performance problems.
What practical insights will you uncover?
Barriers to Engagement
Find out what’s truly getting in the way when employees feel disconnected—whether it’s unclear goals, limited feedback, or lack of recognition. Root cause input reveals what’s beneath low motivation or detachment.
Breakdowns in Trust
Understand why employees may feel unsupported by leaders or isolated from their teams. Follow- up responses highlight the specific behaviors or patterns that damage psychological safety and openness.
Obstacles to Growth
Learn what holds people back when they say they’re not progressing. Whether it’s limited opportunities, unclear expectations, or role misalignment, these insights reveal how growth can be reignited.
Sources of Frustration
Surface recurring issues that cause daily friction—from broken processes and overwork to micromanagement. These real-world experiences give voice to silent pain points within the organization.
Misalignment with Values
When employees report low pride or cultural disconnection, root cause feedback clarifies what feels off—such as inconsistent leadership, lack of purpose, orethical concerns.
Unspoken Employee Needs
Reveal what employees wish leaders knew but rarely say. These insights capture honest reflections on what matters most—helping leaders act with greater precision, empathy, and impact.
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