Market researchers collect and analyse data and information that is valuable to their clients who are made up of organisations, businesses and government departments. The information they provide helps their clients to make informed political, social and economic decisions.
As a market researcher, you may be employed directly by a company (known as client-side), where you would collect information on customer opinions, investment and marketing decisions. The majority of market researchers, however, are employed by marketing agencies that range in size, where work is carried out on numerous projects for different companies and industries.
Market researchers tend to specialise in either quantitative or qualitative research. Quantitative research involves working with statistics and percentages and can deliver quick results. Qualitative research involves analysing opinions and can provide the reasons behind certain percentages. Qualitative research is a longer process, sometimes lasting years.