Most seminar and speech evaluations are devised for one of two purposes: (1) Fault finding; or (2) Compliment fishing.

By scanning the questions you can usually tell what the agenda is of the instrument designer, or more aptly, the surveys sponsor.

But there is a third type that you can construct quite easily or administer improvisationally, that will yield better, more reliable information and feedback.

If youre a contract instructor, or you work for a university or for certain corporations, theyll force you to administer their standard questionnaire. Generally, I dont have a problem with that, though I doubt the probity and overall effectiveness of their devices.

So, in addition to handing out theirs, Ill distribute blank sheets of paper or brief, preprinted forms that ask: What did you like? and What didnt you like?

Additionally, Will you recommend this seminar to your associates and managers? and May I quote you? If the answer to the last question is Yes, then please print your name and company name.

To me, this set of questions covers the waterfront, so to speak.

Attendees will disclose exactly whats on their minds and not try to make their impressions fit the awkward questions contained in most evaluations.

Also, theyll address the most important topics in their estimation.

Most important, youll be able to mine testimonials that you can use in your marketing, later on.

And one more thing: If the hand written evaluations are at variance with the standardized forms, youll have proof that you were effective and your sessions were worthwhile.