Market and survey researchersMarket, or marketing research analysts are concerned with the potential sales of a product or service. They analyze statistical data on past sales to predict future sales. They gather data on competitors and analyze prices, sales, and methods of marketing and distribution. Market research analysts devise methods and procedures for obtaining the data they need. They often design telephone, mail, or Internet surveys to assess consumer preferences. Some surveys are conducted as personal interviews by going door-to-door, leading focus group discussions, or setting up booths in public places such as shopping malls. Trained interviewers, under the market research analyst�s direction, usually conduct the surveys. After compiling the data, market research analysts evaluate them and make recommendations to their client or employer based upon their findings. They provide a company�s management with information needed to make decisions on the promotion, distribution, design, and pricing of products or services. The information may also be used to determine the advisability of adding new lines of merchandise, opening new branches, or otherwise diversifying the company�s operations. Market research analysts might also develop advertising brochures and commercials, sales plans, and product promotions such as rebates and giveaways. Survey researchers design and conduct surveys for a variety of clients such as corporations, government agencies, political candidates, and service providers. They use surveys to collect information that is used for research, making fiscal or policy decisions, measuring policy effectiveness, and improving customer satisfaction. Analysts may conduct opinion research to determine public attitudes on various issues, which may help political or business leaders and others assess public support for their electoral prospects or social policies. Like market research analysts, survey researchers may use a variety of mediums to conduct surveys, such as the Internet, personal or telephone interviews, or mail questionnaires. They also may supervise interviewers who conduct surveys in person or over the telephone. Survey researchers design surveys in many different formats, depending upon the scope of research and method of collection. Interview surveys, for example, are common because they can increase survey participation rates. Survey researchers may consult with economists, statisticians, market research analysts, or other data users in order to design surveys. They also may present survey results to clients. Related news articles [an error occurred while processing this directive] More information on Market and survey researchers from The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Overview of Market and survey researchers occupation Number of Market and survey researchers in the U.S. Salary and earnings for Market and survey researchers Working conditions for Market and survey researchers Significant points for Market and survey researchers Training requirements for Market and survey researchers Labor Information Home | Occupational data by city | Search Rainforests | Madagascar | What's new |