Top 11 Field Interviewer Certifications

Certifications are important for field interviewers in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the candidate is knowledgeable and qualified for the position. Certifications also provide evidence of a commitment to professional development and can help a field interviewer stand out from other applicants. They can also demonstrate a higher level of competency in specific areas, such as survey research, data collection, or customer service. Having certifications can also give an interviewer an edge when competing for positions with similar qualifications.

This article reviews the top certifications for Field Interviewers and explains how they can help to enhance a field interviewer's career.

What are Field Interviewer Certifications?

Field interviewer certification is a program offered by survey research firms to ensure that their field interviewers are properly trained and qualified to conduct surveys. The certification program provides training on the proper methods and techniques for conducting face-to-face interviews, as well as instruction in the ethical principles and standards of survey research. This training allows field interviewers to better understand and follow survey protocols, thereby improving the quality of the data collected. Additionally, this certification helps to ensure that all surveys are conducted in a consistent manner across all surveyed locations, providing more reliable results. Field interviewer certification can also help protect survey research firms from legal liability by demonstrating a commitment to ethical practices. Finally, it can be used as a tool for recruiting and retaining qualified field interviewers by providing them with an extra credential that shows they have received training in survey methodology.

Pro Tip: Make sure to take the time to research field interviewer certification requirements and standards before you begin the process. Some certifications may require additional training or experience, so it's important to understand what is necessary for successful completion. Additionally, be sure to check with your local government or other relevant organizations for any specific requirements that may apply in your area.

Related: What does a Field Interviewer do?

Top 11 Field Interviewer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Field Interviewers today.

1. Certified Field Interviewer (CFI)

A Certified Field Interviewer (CFI) is a professional who has been trained and certified to conduct field research interviews. CFIs are typically hired by market research companies, government agencies, or other organizations that need to collect data from people in the field.

To become a CFI, an individual must complete a training program that covers topics such as interviewing techniques, ethics and legal issues, survey design, data collection methods, and data analysis. The training program can take anywhere from one week to several months depending on the complexity of the material and the amount of time available for study.

The cost of becoming a CFI varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Most programs require a fee for registration and/or materials. Additionally, some programs may require travel expenses for attending classes or completing fieldwork.

Once an individual has completed their training program and passed all necessary exams, they will receive their CFI certification. This certification allows them to work as a professional field interviewer in their chosen area of expertise.

2. Certified Survey Research Professional (CSRP)

Certified Survey Research Professional (CSRP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in survey research. The CSRP designation is awarded by the Council of American Survey Research Organizations (CASRO) and is recognized as the premier credential for survey research professionals.

The CSRP certification process requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of survey design, sampling methods, data collection techniques, data analysis, and report writing. Applicants must also pass an online examination.

The entire process typically takes between 6-9 months to complete. To become certified as a CSRP, applicants must first submit an application with supporting documentation such as transcripts or resumes that demonstrate their qualifications. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete an online training course and then take the online exam.

The cost of the CSRP certification program varies depending on whether you are a CASRO member or non-member. For members, the cost is $1,250; for non-members it is $2,500.

3. Qualitative Research Interviewer Certification (QRIC)

Qualitative Research Interviewer Certification (QRIC) is a certification program designed to ensure that interviewers have the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct qualitative research interviews. The certification is offered by the Qualitative Research Interviewers Association (QRIA), an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting best practices in qualitative research interviewing.

The QRIC certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral interview. The written exam covers topics such as ethical considerations, data collection methods, interviewing techniques, and analysis of qualitative data. The oral interview evaluates the interviewer's ability to apply the concepts covered in the written exam.

The QRIC certification process typically takes about six months from start to finish. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application form, which includes their resume and a statement of purpose outlining their interest in becoming qualified as a qualitative researcher. Once the application is approved, applicants must register for and pass both parts of the QRIC exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of obtaining QRIC certification varies depending on the applicant's location, but typically ranges from $500-$800 USD. This fee covers all materials related to taking the exam, including study guides and practice tests.

4. Certified Market Research Professional (CMRS)

Certified Market Research Professional (CMRS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). It is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated a mastery of market research skills and knowledge. The CMRS credential is intended to distinguish individuals as knowledgeable, experienced, and competent in the field of market research.

The CMRS certification requires applicants to successfully complete an online exam that covers topics such as research design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and report writing. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in market research or related fields.

In order to become certified, applicants must submit an application fee of $200 USD and provide proof of their professional experience. Once approved, they will be required to take the online exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CMRS certification from the AMA.

The cost for taking the CMRS exam is $200 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. The fee covers all materials necessary for taking the exam as well as access to practice exams and study guides. The cost does not include travel expenses or other costs associated with preparing for the exam.

5. Certified Professional Interviewer (CPI)

Certified Professional Interviewer (CPI) is a certification program designed to provide interviewers with the skills and knowledge to conduct professional interviews. The program is offered by the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PARW/CC). It is designed for individuals who are interested in developing their interviewing skills, as well as those who already have experience in conducting interviews.

The CPI program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person assessment. The online course covers topics such as effective communication, interviewing techniques, legal considerations, and ethical practices. The assessment includes a series of questions that assess the interviewer’s knowledge and ability to apply the concepts learned during the online course.

The cost for the CPI program varies depending on which version of the program you choose. The basic version costs $595 USD, while the premium version costs $795 USD. Both versions include access to the online course and assessment, as well as a certificate upon successful completion of the program.

It typically takes about 8-12 hours to complete both parts of the CPI program. Once you have completed both parts, you will receive your certificate within 5 business days.

6. Accredited Professional Surveyor (APS)

Accredited Professional Surveyor (APS) is a professional designation awarded by the Canadian Institute of Geomatics (CIG). The APS designation is the highest level of recognition for professional surveyors in Canada and recognizes those who have achieved a high level of expertise and experience in their field.

It typically takes four to five years to become an APS, depending on your experience and qualifications. To obtain this designation, you must meet certain educational requirements, pass a written exam, demonstrate your knowledge and skills through a portfolio review, and pass an oral interview.

In order to take the written exam, you must first become a member of CIG. Membership fees vary depending on your profession and location. After becoming a member, you can then apply to take the written exam. The cost for the exam is approximately $500 CAD plus applicable taxes.

Once you have passed the written exam, you must submit a portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge and skills in surveying. This portfolio will be reviewed by CIG's Accreditation Board to determine if you are eligible for the APS designation. If approved, you will then be invited to participate in an oral interview with members of the Accreditation Board.

Once all requirements have been met, CIG will award you with the APS designation and issue you an official certificate recognizing your achievement. The cost for obtaining this designation varies depending on your membership status with CIG but typically ranges from $1,000 - $2,000 CAD plus applicable taxes.

7. Certified Public Opinion Pollster (CPOP)

Certified Public Opinion Pollster (CPOP) is a certification program offered by the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in public opinion research. The CPOP certification is based on an applicant's knowledge and experience in survey research, as well as their commitment to ethical standards and professional practices.

The application process for the CPOP certification typically takes about three months. To be eligible, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in survey research and must pass a written exam administered by AAPOR. The exam covers topics such as survey design, data analysis, sampling techniques, questionnaire design, and ethical issues related to public opinion research.

The cost of the CPOP certification varies depending on the applicant's experience level. For those with five or more years of experience, the fee is $500; for those with less than five years of experience, it is $400. There are also additional fees for taking the exam and submitting documentation that supports the application.

Once an applicant has been certified as a CPOP, they will receive recognition from AAPOR and may be able to use their credential when applying for jobs or consulting opportunities in public opinion research.

8. American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) Certification

The American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the design, implementation, and analysis of public opinion research. The certification is designed to provide assurance to employers and clients that certified professionals have the knowledge and experience necessary to conduct quality public opinion research.

To become AAPOR certified, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of survey methods, sampling techniques, data collection procedures, data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations related to the field of public opinion research. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering these topics. Applicants must also have at least three years of professional experience in the field or equivalent education.

The process typically takes 3-6 months from application submission to receiving results. To apply for certification, applicants must submit an application form with supporting documentation such as proof of education or work experience. Once approved by AAPOR’s Certification Committee, applicants will be sent instructions on how to register for the exam and pay the associated fee ($250).

Once applicants pass the exam they will receive their AAPOR Certification certificate and can use it as evidence of their expertise in public opinion research. The certification is valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

9. International Association for Public Opinion Research (IAPOR) Certification

The International Association for Public Opinion Research (IAPOR) Certification is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of public opinion research. It is a recognition of an individual’s expertise in the field, and it serves as a mark of distinction that can be used to demonstrate one’s qualifications to potential employers or clients.

In order to become certified, applicants must complete an application process that includes an assessment of their experience and knowledge in the area of public opinion research. This assessment includes a written exam as well as an oral interview with IAPOR representatives. The process typically takes between three and six months to complete.

Applicants must pay a fee for the certification which varies depending on the country where they are applying from. In some countries, such as the United States, this fee is $500 USD. In other countries, such as Canada, the fee is slightly lower at $400 CAD.

Once certified, individuals are eligible for membership in IAPOR and can use their certification to demonstrate their expertise in public opinion research when seeking employment or consulting opportunities.

10. National Council on Public Polls (NCPP) Certification

The National Council on Public Polls (NCPP) is a non-profit organization that provides certification for public opinion pollsters. The NCPP Certification is designed to ensure that public opinion polls are conducted in accordance with the highest ethical and methodological standards.

In order to obtain NCPP Certification, pollsters must demonstrate their commitment to ethical and methodological excellence by successfully completing an extensive evaluation process. This process includes a comprehensive review of the pollster’s research methods, data collection techniques, and statistical analysis procedures. Additionally, the pollster must submit evidence of their compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

The NCPP Certification process typically takes two to three months to complete. In order to begin the certification process, an applicant must submit an application fee of $500. Once the application is accepted, a panel of experts will review the applicant’s materials and determine if they meet the criteria for certification. If successful, the applicant will be awarded NCPP Certification and will receive a certificate from the organization.

Overall, obtaining NCPP Certification is an important step for any public opinion pollster who wishes to demonstrate their commitment to ethical and methodological excellence in their work.

11. Society of Professional Surveyors and Market Researchers (SPSMR) Certification

The Society of Professional Surveyors and Market Researchers (SPSMR) is an international organization that provides professional certification for surveyors and market researchers. The SPSMR Certification is a voluntary designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of survey research and market research.

To obtain the SPSMR Certification, an individual must first meet certain educational requirements and pass an exam. The educational requirements include a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in marketing or related field, or two years of full-time experience in survey research or market research. The exam covers topics such as survey design, data collection techniques, analysis methods, report writing, and ethics.

The exam is offered twice per year at various locations around the world. It typically takes about six months to prepare for the exam and complete all necessary paperwork. Once the exam has been passed, the individual will be awarded their SPSMR Certification.

The cost for taking the SPSMR Certification Exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. In addition to this fee, there may also be additional costs associated with preparing for the exam such as purchasing study materials or attending review courses.

Do You Really Need a Field Interviewer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. If you are looking to become a professional field interviewer, then yes, you do need a field interviewer certificate. This certificate indicates that you have the proper training and knowledge to effectively conduct interviews in the field. It also shows potential employers that you are qualified and knowledgeable in the area of interviewing.

In addition, having a field interviewer certificate can be beneficial if you are looking to advance your career or take on more responsibilities. Employers may view it as an indication of your commitment and dedication to the profession, and may be more likely to promote or hire someone with such credentials.

On the other hand, if you do not plan on becoming a professional field interviewer, then it is probably not necessary for you to obtain a field interviewer certificate. In this case, it would be more beneficial to focus on gaining experience in conducting interviews through volunteering or internships. This will give you real-world experience that can help prepare you for future job opportunities.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a field interviewer certificate will depend on your individual goals and aspirations within the profession of interviewing.

Related: Field Interviewer Resume Examples

FAQs About Field Interviewer Certifications

1. What is a Field Interviewer Certification?

Answer: A Field Interviewer Certification is an industry-recognized credential that verifies one’s proficiency in conducting field research interviews. It demonstrates the knowledge and skills needed to successfully gather data from participants in a variety of settings.

2. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The time required to become certified depends on the type of certification one wishes to obtain, as well as the completion of any prerequisites or training courses needed for certification. Generally, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete all the necessary steps for certification.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Field Interviewer?

Answer: Benefits of becoming a certified Field Interviewer include increased credibility with clients, higher pay, and access to better job opportunities in the field research industry. Additionally, having a certification can give you an edge over competitors when applying for positions or competing for contracts.

4. What qualifications do I need to become a certified Field Interviewer?

Answer: To become a certified Field Interviewer, you must typically possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent and have experience in conducting interviews either through professional or volunteer work. You may also need to complete additional training courses depending on the specific certifications you are pursuing.

5. Are there any costs associated with obtaining certification?

Answer: Yes, there may be costs associated with obtaining certification depending on which organization or program you go through and what type of certifications you are seeking. Costs could range from application fees, tuition fees for training courses, and/or exam fees.