Opportunities in research

Interested in product development, customer relations or influencing government policy? One career path can take you to all three: market, social and opinion research. This graduate-led industry thrives on new ideas and challenging initiatives, responding to rapidly changing consumer tastes and utilising new technology to inform all levels of economic, social and political decision-making.

There are two distinct sides to research careers: the companies supplying research and their clients. Graduate entrants in research agencies are involved in managing the entire research project: from the planning process before data collection begins, through to analysing the results, interpreting their business implications and communicating these to the client. Within client-side organisations, graduates work in-house, in a commissioning or liaison role with an agency. Graduates also move between the two sides.

There are also two research disciplines: quantitative and qualitative. It is usual to specialise in one. If you are interested in knowing the percentage of people that do/like/think something, quantitative research would suit you. If you like to analyse why they do, then qualitative research would be more your thing.

Salaries

Starting salaries are competitive and in keeping with other marketing professions.

How do I find a job?

Research magazine, published monthly by MRS, and its companion website www.researchjobfinder.com carry job advertisements. Via the website you can also register to receive relevant vacancy details by email, contact recruitment agencies, submit your CV and obtain careers advice.

A list of recruitment agencies specialising in market research opportunities can be found in the Research Buyer's Guide, a directory of organisations in the UK and Republic of Ireland offering market research and related services and published annually by MRS. The online version at www.theresearchbuyersguide.com includes free searchable listings.

If you are interested in mystery shopping, we have compiled a list of companies involved in this area of work. If you would like to receive a copy please email membership@mrs.org.uk, and include your full name and postal address.

Student placements

Many organisations offer placements for students interested in working in a market or social research environment.

Back to Careers Introduction

'To do market research well you also need to be curious and to be able to look at results froma different point of view.'
Ruth Buchanan, Customer & Research Manager, Virgin Megastores

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