Three employee survey questions to ask essential workers during the pandemic

COVID-19 has most definitely changed our 9 to 5 and the way we interact and engage with our employees. Fortunately, this doesn't mean organizations can't have just as a healthy workplace and corporate culture as we did prior to COVID-19.

When it comes to working remotely or from the office, it is safe to say that there are some major differences especially regarding health and safety during the pandemic. That is why the usual standard employee survey may not be a one size fit all. If your organization consists of essential workers or you are getting ready for your employees to return to work, additional survey questions can be recommended for your non remote working staff. 

By asking your employees the right questions, we can better support them during this difficult time. Which in return will help us develop stronger employee relationships, increase trust and most importantly workplace safety.

To keep this easy and convenient, our team has determined a list of three great questions to include in your upcoming employee survey. 


If your organization consists of essential workers or employees returning to work, here are three great questions to include in the upcoming survey.

1. Are you satisfied with our response to the COVID-19 situation within our organization?

2. Does senior leadership do a good job of sharing information regarding COVID-19?

3. Do you feel safety protocols are being followed at work?

One extra question worth asking:

4. Do you feel comfortable communicating concerns or making suggestions about COVID-19 to leadership?

Should we use open ended questions? 

Asking open ended survey questions especially during the pandemic is highly recommended because it allows your employees the opportunity to share additional information related to the specific question. As an alternative, if we are to ask "yes" or "no" questions, then it may be wise to have a comment box under each of the questions, so your employees can add additional information related to that specific question. 

This allows your employees the opportunity to share more valuable information, which in return provides you the opportunity to learn more about how your employees feel and what they are thinking regarding each specific question. 

What is a good example of an open ended question during the pandemic? 

What are your top concerns or suggestions to help you feel safer during work hours? ​

Final Thoughts 

When conducting your next employee survey, it is important to ask questions that may also be specific to your organization. This will allow for more useful information and will assist with improving and keeping your employee health and safety at higher levels. 

We would love to hear your thoughts!

​Has your organization conducted employee surveys during the pandemic? 

By: Ellie Stojanovski

Ellie's background and experience in Human Resources will provide impactful and meaningful insight to improve how organizations approach employee satisfaction, engagement and retention. Her passion lies in connecting people processes with operational excellence to create true HR partnerships.