Pulse Survey

A pulse survey is a short (5-10 questions), frequent (monthly or quarterly) employee feedback survey capturing real-time sentiment on specific topics. Response rates are typically 70-80% because they're quick.

The 2026 State of Employee Listening study found that 64% of mature organisations listen at least quarterly through pulse surveys. The shift from annual to continuous listening is one of the most significant changes in HR operations.

Pulse surveys work because they catch issues early, are focused on specific themes, and produce smaller datasets that are easier to act on quickly.