Market Research Analyst: Career Information

Market research analysts help companies determine what to sell, to whom to sell it and how to promote their products and services. They do this by designing surveys that are used to help discover the preferences of potential customers. Market research analysts then train and supervise interviewers who conduct these surveys online, by telephone or through interviews with individuals or with focus groups.

There were 250,000 market research analysts employed in 2008.

Someone who wants to work as a market research analyst must have at least a bachelor's degree, but a master's degree may be required for some jobs. Coursework should include business, marketing, statistics, mathematics and survey design.

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Market research analysts may receive certification from the Marketing Research Association. This certification is based on education and experience. Market research analysts must have a strong ability to communicate in writing and orally.

After getting experience assisting others, a marketing research analyst will be assigned to his or her own projects. Marketing research analysts who want to advance to more responsible positions should take continuing education courses to keep up with the newest methods of developing, conducting, and analyzing surveys and other data. Advanced degrees are also helpful.

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The job outlook for market research analysts is excellent. This occupation is projected to experience much faster growth, through 2018, than other occupations requiring a bachelor's degree (The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).

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In 2009 market research analysts earned a median salary of $61,580 annually.

Use the Salary Wizard at Salary.com to find out how much a market research analyst currently earns in your city.

On a typical day a market research analyst's tasks might include:

• Collecting and analyzing data on customer demographics, preferences, needs, and buying habits to identify potential markets and factors affecting product demand.
• Preparing reports of findings, illustrating data graphically and translating complex findings into written text.
• Measuring and assessing customer and employee satisfaction.
• Forecasting and tracking marketing and sales trends, and analyzing collected data.
• Measuring the effectiveness of marketing, advertising, and communications programs and strategies.

Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Market and Survey Researchers, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos013.htm (visited November 30, 2010).
Employment and Training Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, O*NET Online, Market Research Analysts, on the Internet at http://online.onetcenter.org/link/details/19-3021.00 (visited November 30, 2010).

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