MRS launches first Industry-wide network for young researchers

Date: 8 September 2003

The Market Research Society (MRS) has today announced the launch of a networking group for young researchers. 'R-Net - for researchers on the way up' has been established for researchers - both agency and client-side - who are starting out in the industry.

As the first industry-wide forum with such a broad range of objectives, R-Net will be run by young researchers for young researchers. In addition, it will be open to anyone during the first few years of their career who is interested or working in market or social research and related areas, such as data processing, operations, academia, advertising and marketing.

Jake Kelley, NOP Research Group and a founder member of R-Net, commented, "R-Net provides a forum for all people new to the research industry, irrespective of where they work or what they do. By keeping its membership open to all new researchers, this network can truly serve the needs of such a multi-faceted industry."

One of the most important aims of R-Net is to provide young research professionals with access to professional development opportunities in a relaxed, non-work environment. Regular talks by established industry professionals will be held to address topics members feel most relevant to them. These are likely to range from 'How to handle clients' to 'Moving up the career ladder'.

Another important function of R-Net is the social activities that the Network will provide. In a profession typified by erratic working hours and plentiful travel, R-Net's calendar of social events will offer young researchers throughout the industry an opportunity to meet their peers and share their experiences.

As Ruth Buchanan, an R-Net founding member from Barclaycard, explains, "As someone working client-side, I think the Network will be really useful in providing external contacts and experience in the research industry. Client companies can become introspective and concentrate more on developing generic business and management skills rather than specialist research skills. R-Net will help to restore this balance."

Future activities planned by the Network include a mentoring programme, shared training materials and bringing market research as a positive career choice to the attention of undergraduates.

The flagship launch event for R-Net will take place on 30 September 2003 in London. Starting at 6.30pm, the evening will include welcome drinks and a chance for members to get to know each other, followed by a presentation from guest speaker, Alnoor Samji, MORI Director. Alnoor will be speaking on 'Delighting Clients: Advising Clients to get Maximum Impact'. Tickets are available free of charge on a first-come first-served basis but must be booked in advance.

Speaking on the MRS' decision to establish R-Net, Paul Vittles, Managing Director of RBA Research who helped to instigate the Network, commented, "R-Net has been supported by the MRS as it has been seeking ways to meet the demand from young researchers for an industry-wide forum that will meet their needs. This is a very encouraging move for everyone involved in or with an interest in market or social research who is just setting out on their career.

"The market and social research industry is a great career option for graduates and the MRS is committed to attracting ever increasing numbers of graduates into the profession. R-Net is a positive reflection of this commitment and will offer the young members of the industry a valuable source of information, training and career support."

Readers wishing to reserve a free place at the R-Net launch event on 30 September should email Rnet@mrs.org.uk More information on R-Net is available at

www.mrs.org.uk/networking/rnet/r_net.htm

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