Using Surveys to Build a Strong Small Group
Click the button to download a printable Small Group Survey
Each small group or bible study is unique, because it is made up of individuals. Handing out a survey to your new small group is a great way to get to know each person, while also gaining information to inform your decisions as a leader. Below you will find suggestions and resources to build a survey that can anchor your group for the future.
Why You Need a Survey
The secret to a seamless group launch lies in the insights you collect early on. Instead of juggling scattered contact info and personal details, a survey consolidates everything—from birthdays to family dynamics—into a single, reliable point of reference. This isn't just about making group administration easy; it’s a powerful way to invite your members into the vision-casting process. By asking what they’re eager to study or what they hope to gain from the season, you aren't just filling a calendar—you’re ensuring they feel seen, heard, and truly invested in the community you’re building together. Ultimately, a survey is a tool for better leadership; it provides the clarity you need to serve your members with intentionality from day one.
Building Your Survey
Below are some suggested information to collect and questions to ask. At the top, you can download a printable copy of this survey. Or you can use these suggestions to build a digital survey to send to the group. You can use Google Forms, TypeForm, Survey Monkey, or any other survey service you are comfortable with to build out a digital survey. If your group is large (more than 10 people), it will be easier to collect this information digitally.
Whether you do a digital survey, or use a printed version, make sure you give each person enough time to complete the survey without feeling rushed. If you are doing it in-group, give everyone 10-15 minutes to fill it out. You can also assign members to complete it at home.
Survey Questions:
Name
Email
Phone Number
Birthday
Favorite Color
What is your favorite salty snack?
What is your favorite sweet snack?
What is your favorite kind of cake?
Do you have any dietary restrictions?
What kind of socials interest you? (list them)
What is one spiritual discipline or habit you’d like to lean into this season?
What study topics interest you the most?
What type of studies do you prefer? (video studies, in-depth bible study, read a christian living book)
What are you most looking forward to getting out of group?
Is there something from a previous group that you loved that you would like to consider us adding to our group?
Is there anything you would like to share with the leaders that wasn't covered in this survey?
Extra questions to consider:
How much time do you have for homework?
How can this group best support you?
Would you be open to hosting group sometimes?
If you have a prayer request or an update during the week, do you prefer a group text, a private message, or waiting until we meet in person?
Do you have a Bible?
Is there a specific book or topics you have studied recently that you would prefer not to revisit right away?
What is something you studied before that you would read again with this group?
Would you be open to leading the discussion sometimes?
How much of this group do you want to be study vs. social?
What is your favorite drink?
Do you like to journal?
Are you interested in doing a service project as a small group?
Who is in your family? Who do you live with?
Expectations
When introducing your survey, keep in mind that some members may view it as "homework," a breach of privacy, or a bit too corporate for a social setting. To smooth over these objections, frame the questionnaire as a service tool rather than an administrative chore. Be transparent that the data is for your eyes only, keep the "deep" questions optional to respect personal boundaries. Emphasize that five minutes of input now prevents hours of logistical "back-and-forth" later. As the leader, you are taking a “pulse-check” of what everyone wants so you can be intentional when planning for the group.
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