This section of 5 Quick Ideas will include information about different types of information to gather, but this post in particular focuses on getting a basic read on an issue - the gut reaction, or the temperature - from given audiences.
How to take this quick temperature is more art than science. However knowing how to artfully broach a subject that is challenging for many is an important step for getting meaningful reactions.
IDEA 1 - KNOW WHAT YOU'RE GOING TO ASK
Before you ask anyone, give some thought as to what you want to ask, ways to ask it, and test it out with a few individuals to get their reaction to how you ask a question. Spend a little time refining your question so that when you go to get a read it is a true reflection of the audience opinion.
IDEA 2 - KNOW WHO YOU ARE ASKING
The better you can parse the groups you are taking the temperature, the better. Whether there is a geographical divide, a partisan divide, a business sector divide, etc. on an issue, know that before you go in and figure out how to read the reactions
IDEA 3 - ASK FOR FOLLOW UP
A temperature read isn't something that will give you a clear cut indication of support or position on an issue, but instead a reaction. It will reveal thoughts, concerns and questions. Whenever possible, offer ways for people to follow back after further reflection.
IDEA 4 - KNOW WHY YOU'RE ASKING
What is the next step? A survey, a poll, focus groups, cluster groups, etc. The purpose of the temperature gauge is to refine further data gathering so you get useful information. Guide your efforts towards that.
IDEA 5 - LET PEOPLE KNOW WHAT IS NEXT
People don't want to feel like their input is going into a void, but that there will be more follow up, make sure the people you ask know about what to do next, and what to look for next. They may also prove to be a great resource for the right group to follow up with for additional respondents or participants in your issue research.
The Pew Research Center has a great primer on how to gather survey data - which is often what taking a temperature is - that could help you further understand in greater depth how to move towards useful and valid data.
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