Which of the following is most likely to increase DEOCS participation?

• A. Leaders communicating the purpose of the DEOCS
• B. A kick-off event
• C. Keeping unit members informed on progress related to plans for addressing the issues identified in the previous DEOCS
• D. Providing incentives for completing the survey

Answer: (A)

Understanding why people participate in a climate survey hinges on the perceived value and trust behind the effort. When leaders clearly communicate the purpose of the DEOCS—what feedback will be used for, how it will lead to real improvements, and how results will be treated confidentially—members see the survey as meaningful and worth their time. This signals that their input matters and that leadership is committed to acting on the findings, which builds psychological safety and motivates participation.

A kick-off event can raise initial awareness, but without a clear message about the why and what happens next, motivation can fade. Keeping everyone informed on progress helps sustain engagement, yet it doesn’t establish the initial belief in the survey’s importance. Incentives might boost numbers temporarily, but they don’t address the underlying trust and relevance that drive genuine participation.

In short, leaders communicating the purpose best creates the sense that the DEOCS is a valuable, trusted tool for real improvement, making people more likely to take part.