Abstract #300923

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JSM 2003 Abstract #300923
Activity Number: 83
Type: Contributed
Date/Time: Monday, August 4, 2003 : 8:30 AM to 10:20 AM
Sponsor: Section on Survey Research Methods
Abstract - #300923
Title: Take This Job and...: Why Interviewers Leave
Author(s): Geraldine Burt*+
Companies: U.S. Census Bureau
Address: 4700 Silver Hill Rd., Washington, DC, 20233-0006,
Keywords: interviewers ; turnover ; CAPI data collection ; training ; response rates
Abstract:

Field interviewers are the foundation of the U.S. Census Bureau's data collection programs. The Bureau's ability to retain a competent, motivated staff of locally based interviewers is one of the most important factors affecting the quality and cost of field data. In a continuous effort to devise policies to reduce interviewer turnover, the Bureau collects data on the reasons interviewers leave. The Bureau uses this information to make better informed decisions regarding effective pay plans, interviewer training, and retention strategies. This paper examines the relative importance and interaction of factors contributing to interviewer turnover. It provides insight on the impact of training programs, supervisory interactions, pay and other working conditions on interviewers' decisions to leave the job. By examining the relationship between job factors such as salary, benefits, performance expectations, working conditions, workload, and automation, the paper provides information on those factors that the Bureau can control and those it can't. The paper also analyzes the extent to which reasons for turnover are systemic or localized and correlated with performance.

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