Skip main navigation

Next Step

 

Wherever you are now, there’s a path forward

A career in insights, research and analytics is rarely a straight line. Whether you're ready to take the next step up, explore a different area of the profession, or return after a career break, there are countless opportunities to shape a career that works for you.

As the sector evolves, so do the roles, skills and experiences that employers value. The good news is that many of the skills developed in research, insight, analytics and related professions are highly transferable, opening up opportunities across a wide range of sectors, specialisms and employer types.

Looking to Progress?

If you're ready to move into a more senior role, grow your responsibilities or develop expertise in a particular area, take some time to explore the different career pathways available across the profession and the ways in which MRS can support you. Your next move could involve leading teams, managing larger projects, developing strategic expertise or becoming a recognised specialist in your field.

Looking to Move Across?

Career progression doesn't always mean moving up. Many professionals build rewarding careers by moving into different roles, sectors or specialisms. You might be interested in moving from quantitative to qualitative research, from agency to client-side, from research into analytics, or from project delivery into consultancy.

Exploring different roles can help you understand where your existing skills might transfer and identify new opportunities you may not have previously considered.

Visit our Explore Roles section to discover the wide range of careers available across the profession.

Returning After a Career Break?

Whether you've taken time away for caring responsibilities, personal reasons, study, travel or another career, returning to work can feel daunting. The insights, research and analytics sector values diverse experiences, and many of the skills you've gained during your time away can continue to be relevant and valuable.

Take time to explore today's career opportunities, consider how your skills and experience align to different roles, and identify any learning or development that could help boost your confidence as you return.

Find the Right Environment for You

Different employer types can offer very different experiences. Some people thrive in fast-paced agency environments, while others prefer to work within client-side insight teams, specialist consultancies, technology providers or operations businesses.

Understanding the types of organisations operating within the sector can help you identify workplaces that fit your interests, strengths and career ambitions.

Visit our Types of Employers page to explore the organisations that make up the research, insight and analytics profession.

Keep Growing

Whatever your next step looks like, remember that career development is a continuous journey. Stay curious, keep learning, build your network and be open to new opportunities. The skills that make great insight professionals, curiosity, critical thinking, communication and a desire to understand people, can open doors throughout your career.

Your next opportunity could be closer than you think. Start exploring and take the next step with confidence.

 

 

 

 

Get the latest MRS news

Our newsletters cover the latest MRS events, policy updates and research news.

Sign up A white arrowA black arrow