| Careers - Market and Survey Researcher |
Local Programs:Gonzaga University Nature of the work:Market and survey researchers gather information about what people think. Market, or marketing, research analysts help companies understand what types of products people want and at what price. They also help companies market their products to the people most likely to buy them. Gathering statistical data on competitors and examining prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution, they analyze data on past sales to predict future sales. Survey researchers also gather information about people and their opinions, but these workers focus exclusively on designing and conducting surveys. The surveys collect information that is used in performing research, making fiscal or policy decisions, measuring the effectiveness of those decisions, or improving customer satisfaction. Employment Environment:Market and survey researchers generally have structured work schedules. They often work alone, writing reports, preparing statistical charts, and using computers, but they also may be an integral part of a research team. Market researchers who conduct personal interviews have frequent contact with the public. Most work under pressure of deadlines and tight schedules, which may require overtime. Travel may be necessary. Training, Education and Licensing:A bachelor's degree is the minimum educational requirement for many market and survey research jobs. However, a master's degree may be required, especially for technical positions. Advancement:Researchers and analysts often begin by assisting others. With experience, market and survey analysts are eventually are assigned their own research projects. Continuing education and advanced degrees will be helpful to those looking to advance to more responsible positions in this occupation. It also is important to keep current with the latest methods of developing, conducting, and analyzing surveys and other data. Job Outlook:Employment of market and survey researchers is projected to grow 20 percent from 2006 to 2016, faster than the average for all occupations. Salary:Median annual earnings of market research analysts in May 2006 were $58,820. The middle 50 percent earned between $42,190 and $84,070…Median annual earnings of survey researchers in May 2006 were $33,360. The middle 50 percent earned between $22,150 and $50,960. Sources:Occupation Handbook (OOH), 2008-2009 Edition, U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics For More Information:Gonzaga University |