If your survey question doesn’t pass the “aphorism test,” cut it

“My best definition of a nerd: someone who asks you to explain an aphorism.”
— Nassim Taleb,
The Bed of Procrustes

Let’s talk about one of the most powerful tests you can use to instantly distinguish good survey questions from bad ones. It not only tells you if customers will answer truthfully or not but also gives you an idea of how valuable their responses will be.

There’s more: this “method” can reveal the wants and needs your customers will pay to get – and the inconveniences they’ll pay to avoid – so you can attract new shoppers and get some traction in your category.

The best part?

It remains a “hidden-in-plain sight” secret.

The rule-obsessed survey nerds – the very people who would gain most from it – are willfully oblivious because it’s a direct threat to their business model.

To justify high fees, and make survey design appear as complicated as brain surgery, they over explain the annoying methodological ‘dos’ and ‘don'ts.’

However the test works by treating methodology rules as suggestions instead of the law.

It makes questions pithy, crisp, and simple.

This is where Taleb’s definition of a nerd applies, because the essence of this test is that a survey question, like an aphorism, should turn the light on instantly.

If a question needs to be explained, or if it’s just a little bit confusing, then cut it. Who cares how methodologically sound it is or not?

Embrace this logic and you’ll get rewarded with actionable insights.

Now I could go on and on but the best thing for you to do is see it for yourself.

See why one client who just booked a Roast emailed me to say, “Change more. This service is amazing.”

And why another simply said, “Holy sh*t.” 

All you need to do is use this form to submit a request. I'll respond within 24 business hours (probably sooner) and we’ll get going.

Here’s a link.

https://www.sammcnerney.com/submit-a-request