Article: When conducting the survey, stick to the script. Chances are, whoever wrote the questionnaire thought long and hard about the types of questions they wanted to ask. By reading each question verbatim, you'll elicit the exact responses your employer is looking for and reduce the possibility of skewing survey responses. Depending on the survey, you may need to become familiar with the program or software your employer has chosen for entering data. Programs like Microsoft Excel, among others, are popular choices. Spend some time navigating the software so you'll be aware of its limitations and unique features. This will prepare you to enter data efficiently and reduce the risk of mistakes. With computer-assisted telephone interviewing, you are given specific questions to ask the respondent. When he or she gives you a response, you enter that response into the computer, where it is immediately entered into the database. Make sure you enter each response just as you heard it to ensure accurate data analysis and interpretation. You may find it helpful to pace the interview by alternating between simple questions and those that require lengthier responses. If you have an involved question, follow it up with a yes or no question to allow yourself enough time to record the answers accurately. Some data entry programs will check your entries for errors, but it's always a good idea to spot check your work.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Read survey questions word-for-word. Familiarize yourself with data entry. Enter each response carefully.