Application Guide

How to Apply for Enumerators, Phone Survey

at PSI: Ethiopia Policy Studies Institute

🏢 About PSI: Ethiopia Policy Studies Institute

PSI: Ethiopia Policy Studies Institute is Ethiopia's premier policy research organization, conducting critical studies that inform national development strategies and public policy decisions. Working here offers the opportunity to contribute directly to evidence-based policymaking that shapes Ethiopia's future across sectors like agriculture, health, education, and economic development.

About This Role

As a Phone Survey Enumerator, you'll conduct structured telephone interviews with respondents across Ethiopia to collect reliable data for PSI's research projects. This role is impactful because the data you gather directly informs policy recommendations that affect millions of Ethiopians, making you a crucial link between citizens' experiences and national decision-making.

💡 A Day in the Life

Your typical day involves preparing for scheduled phone interviews, conducting 15-20 structured interviews with respondents across different Ethiopian regions, carefully recording responses in survey software, and participating in team debriefs to discuss data quality and interview challenges. You'll work with supervisors to ensure data integrity and may participate in training sessions on new survey protocols.

🎯 Who PSI: Ethiopia Policy Studies Institute Is Looking For

  • Fluent in Amharic and at least one other major Ethiopian language (Oromo, Tigrinya, Somali, etc.) with clear telephone communication skills
  • Experience with structured interviewing techniques and data collection protocols, preferably in social science research contexts
  • Familiarity with Ethiopian cultural norms and regional differences to build rapport with diverse respondents
  • Strong attention to detail for accurate data recording and adherence to research ethics protocols

📝 Tips for Applying to PSI: Ethiopia Policy Studies Institute

1

Highlight any experience with CATI (Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing) systems or similar survey software

2

Mention specific Ethiopian regions or demographic groups you have experience interviewing

3

Demonstrate understanding of research ethics in the Ethiopian context, particularly regarding informed consent

4

Provide examples of handling difficult interview situations or respondent reluctance

5

Show awareness of PSI's recent research publications or policy impact areas in your application

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your understanding of PSI's role in Ethiopian policy development and why evidence-based research matters", 'Specific experience conducting phone surveys in Ethiopian contexts, including language capabilities', 'Examples of maintaining data quality and respondent engagement during remote interviews', 'Commitment to research ethics and handling sensitive information appropriately']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review PSI's recent publications on their website to understand their current research focus areas
  • Study Ethiopia's current policy priorities and development plans to understand the context of PSI's work
  • Look into common survey methodologies used in Ethiopian social science research
  • Research PSI's organizational structure and key leadership to understand their institutional approach

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you handle a respondent who is hesitant to answer questions about household income?
2 Describe your approach to building rapport with respondents from different Ethiopian regions
3 What steps would you take if you suspect data quality issues during interviews?
4 How do you ensure you're following informed consent procedures in phone interviews?
5 What experience do you have with survey software or data entry systems?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying with generic survey experience without highlighting Ethiopian context or language skills
  • Failing to demonstrate understanding of research ethics specific to Ethiopian cultural norms
  • Not showing awareness of PSI's specific role as a policy research institute versus academic research

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to PSI: Ethiopia Policy Studies Institute!