The Underrated Power of Focus Groups: Why Every Local Gov Leader Should Be Listening More Closely

ByGovernment Leadership Solutions

Too often, focus groups are viewed as “soft” or optional, something we’ll get to once the budget is finalized or the plan is approved.

But the local government teams we work with tell us a different story. They say:

“We have ideas. We’re just not asked.”

“Nobody really listens.”

“We’re doing our best, but we’re burning out.”

In our experience, focus groups are one of the most strategic tools public sector leaders can use to build trust, uncover blind spots, and drive real cultural change.

Beyond the Survey: Why Focus Groups Matter

Surveys can show you what’s happening. Focus groups reveal why it’s happening.

They help leadership:

  • Uncover the root causes of disengagement
  • Identify patterns that aren’t showing up in the data
  • Hear firsthand what staff need in order to thrive

And perhaps most importantly, they help reestablish trust between leadership and staff by demonstrating that their voices matter.

What We’ve Learned Facilitating Focus Groups

At GLS, we’ve facilitated focus groups with staff from all levels of local government, from frontline public works to executive leadership teams.

Here’s what consistently makes the difference:

  • Psychological safety
  • Neutral facilitation
  • Clear follow-up and communication
  • Leadership’s willingness to listen before fixing

Focus groups aren’t about checking a box; they’re about creating space. And when you do, the insights are often more actionable than leaders expect.

The ROI of Listening

In our 2025 State of Local Government Leadership Pipeline study, 65% of leaders cited trust between teams and leadership as a core challenge, and focus groups are one of the most effective ways to begin rebuilding that trust.

The ROI isn’t just cultural, it’s operational:

  • Lower turnover
  • More strategic decisions
  • Stronger alignment between leadership and staff

Ready to Listen Differently?

If your organization is navigating change, experiencing turnover, or simply trying to understand how people are doing, focus groups can be a starting point for meaningful transformation.

📩 Want to learn how it could work for your team? Send us a message or visit our Culture & Engagement page to explore our approach.

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