Collecting Employee Feedback Without Tech: Old School Methods That Still Work

Plot twist: you don't need an app for everything. Sometimes, the best feedback comes from good old-fashioned conversation and a bit of paper.

Why Go Offline?

Sure, we're a tech company, but we'll be the first to admit that sometimes unplugging works better:

• Not everyone loves typing
• Face-to-face builds trust
• Some things are better said than typed
• Paper can't have technical difficulties
• No passwords to remember

Simple Methods That Actually Work

1. The Good Old Suggestion Box

Yes, really. Here's why it works:

• Always available
• Completely anonymous
• No tech barriers
• Zero learning curve

Make it better:

• Clear instructions
• Regular checking
• Quick responses
• Visible location

2. The Walking Meeting

Get moving and talking:

• More relaxed atmosphere
• Natural conversation
• Better for tough topics
• Helps avoid interruptions

3. The Coffee Chat

Simple but effective:

• Informal setting
• Comfortable atmosphere
• Real conversations
• Better engagement

Making Offline Methods Work Better

1. Set Clear Expectations

Tell people:

• When you'll collect feedback
• How you'll use it
• What happens next
• When they'll hear back

2. Make It Regular

Create routines:

• Weekly check-ins
• Monthly catch-ups
• Quarterly reviews
• Annual planning

3. Keep It Organised

Have a system:

• Note-taking templates
• Action trackers
• Follow-up schedules
• Response timelines

Simple Tools You Already Have

1. Notepads and Pens

The basics work:

• Quick to use
• Always reliable
• Easy to share
• No batteries needed

2. Whiteboards

Perfect for:

• Group discussions
• Visual planning
• Idea mapping
• Quick notes

3. Post-it Notes

Great for:

• Anonymous feedback
• Quick thoughts
• Group activities
• Priority setting

Offline Feedback Activities That Work

1. The Paper Plane Exercise

How it works:

1. Everyone writes feedback on paper
2. Make it into a plane
3. Throw them around the room
4. Each person reads one out
5. Discuss as a group

Why it works:

• Fun and engaging
• Breaks the ice
• Keeps anonymity
• Gets everyone involved

2. The Sticky Note Storm

The process:

1. Give everyone Post-its
2. Ask specific questions
3. One idea per note
4. Stick them on the wall
5. Group similar ideas
6. Discuss as a team

3. The Round Robin

How to do it:

1. Sit in a circle
2. Each person shares one thought
3. No interrupting
4. Keep going until done
5. Discuss themes

Making It Work in Small Business

1. Keep It Simple

Focus on:

• Easy methods
• Clear questions
• Quick responses
• Regular follow-up

2. Make It Practical

Every session needs:

• Clear purpose
• Specific questions
• Action items
• Follow-up plan

3. Show Results

People need to see:

• What you heard
• What's changing
• When it's happening
• How they helped

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. The Black Hole

❌ Don't: Collect feedback and forget about it ✅ Do: Respond quickly and visibly

2. The Formality Trap

❌ Don't: Make it feel like a performance review ✅ Do: Keep it casual and comfortable

3. The One-Size-Fits-All

❌ Don't: Use the same method for everyone ✅ Do: Offer different ways to give feedback

Making Feedback Stick

1. Create Safe Spaces

People need:

• Private areas
• Quiet times
• No pressure
• Real choices

2. Show You Care

Demonstrate it by:

• Acting quickly
• Following up
• Saying thanks
• Showing changes

3. Keep It Going

Make it last:

• Regular sessions
• Different methods
• Fresh questions
• Ongoing improvements

Next Steps

Ready to go old school? Start here:

1. Pick one offline method
2. Try it for a month
3. Ask how it's working
4. Adjust as needed

Remember: Sometimes the best solutions don't need charging.

Need more ideas? We've got plenty - but we won't judge if you stick with paper and pen.