Survey Interviewers
Overview
Survey interviewers collect important information by asking people questions through phone calls, online surveys, or face-to-face meetings. They help people understand survey questions, record their answers accurately using computers and digital forms, and make sure all the data is complete and correct. This job requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with various technology platforms. Many survey interviewers work flexible schedules and collaborate with research teams to gather data that influences everything from new products to government policies.
Did you know?
Success requires excellent verbal and written communication skills along with cultural sensitivity to effectively interview diverse populations across America's multicultural landscape.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$42,153.20 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Reading Comprehension
Key Responsibilities
- Assist individuals in filling out applications or questionnaires.
- Compile, record, and code results or data from interview or survey, using computer or specified form.
- Meet with supervisor daily to submit completed assignments and discuss progress.
- Contact individuals to be interviewed at home, place of business, or field location, by telephone, mail, or in person.
- Perform patient services, such as answering the telephone or assisting patients with financial or medical questions.
- Ask questions in accordance with instructions to obtain various specified information, such as person's name, address, age, religious preference, or state of residency.
- Collect and analyze data, such as studying old records, tallying the number of outpatients entering each day or week, or participating in federal, state, or local population surveys as a Census Enumerator.
- Explain survey objectives and procedures to interviewees and interpret survey questions to help interviewees' comprehension.
- Locate and list addresses and households.
- Review data obtained from interview for completeness and accuracy.
- Perform office duties, such as telemarketing or customer service inquiries, maintaining staff records, billing patients, or receiving payments.
- Ensure payment for services by verifying benefits with the person's insurance provider or working out financing options.
- Identify and report problems in obtaining valid data.
- Prepare reports to provide answers in response to specific problems.
- Identify and resolve inconsistencies in interviewees' responses by means of appropriate questioning or explanation.
- Supervise or train other staff members.
Career Considerations
Strong Communication and Cultural Competency
Success requires excellent verbal and written communication skills along with cultural sensitivity to effectively interview diverse populations across America's multicultural landscape.
Technology Proficiency and Virtual Interview Skills
Proficiency with digital platforms and video conferencing tools is essential as remote and hybrid interview formats have become standard practice in the American job market.
Industry Specialization and Niche Expertise
Developing expertise in specific sectors like market research, journalism, or academic research can significantly enhance career prospects and earning potential in competitive American markets.