Strategies for Increasing Youth Participation in Longitudinal Survey Research: Lessons from a Pilot Study

The pilot phase of a research study is essential for refining methodological and theoretical aspects before a full-scale launch. Using participatory action research with youth and sector partners, this study tested the design and implementation of a longitudinal research project, focusing on four key areas: recruitment strategies, survey design, incentive strategies, and participant engagement and retention. The study compares two recruitment messages, assessed survey clarity and completion rates, tested financial and non-financial incentives, and evaluated participants’ willingness to share contact information and LinkedIn profiles. Data were collected through surveys (n = 91) and focus groups (n = 11) with young people aged 15–29 from across Canada who completed an RBC Future Launch-funded program. Findings indicated that branding and messaging in recruitment emails influenced response rates. Despite concerns about survey length, 97% of participants completed it, with most finishing within 15 min. Among the incentives offered, a CAD 10 payment resulted in the highest response rate. Additionally, both the CAD 10 incentive and the LinkedIn Learning licenses increased participants’ willingness to share LinkedIn profiles. The pilot study provided valuable insights into optimizing recruitment, survey design, and incentive structures for a longitudinal study. These findings provide insights for improving participant engagement and retention in research studies, as well as a co-creation approach to research design.