Collecting Data Paper

COLLECTING DATA

Collecting the appropriate data is important when completing intake and assessment forms to learn more about the applicant and assist the helper with the referral process. Collecting this data normally happens during the helper and the applicant’s first initial contact and this information will assist with verifying the problem, setting appointments, and ensuring the applicants case is properly handled.

INITIAL CONTACT

The very first initial contact with an applicant is usually by phone. A new referral or inquiry form is completed once the applicant has called for the first time (Summers, 2012). Good communication skills are utilized when talking to applicants. As a helper, you would need to learn what the applicant’s problem is and set up an intake appointment for an interview and evaluation process (Summers, 2012). Remember the importance of making a person feel welcomed and at eased during their first time of asking for help.

FILLING OUT FORMS

Correctly filling out forms is an important process. There are several different steps to filing out the forms for applicants. The forms tell the initial information about the applicant that will be helpful during the interview process. The helper completes the chief complaint section and briefly describes what he or she heard the applicate say their needs are or why their calling so the applicants main problems are understood (Summers, 2012).

EVALUATING THE CLIENTS MOOD

When talking to applicants on the phone, it’s crucial to determine their mood. Being able to determine how the applicant seem or sound will tell how receptive they are to receiving help (Summers, 2012). Being a skillful communicator with great observation skills can assist the helper to get their caller to open up to learn as