If you’re looking to make extra cash, participating in market research is one of the best things you can do. I went to several focus groups when I was a student. It really helped me save up to buy my first iPod and digital camera in the 2000s!
I had so much fun seeing previews of products or ads from major brands. When I was asked to pick my favourite ad for a telco, I rejected all of them claiming “you could do better” based on their reputation. Back in the day, I was also asked to review flip phones!
I love how you can be brutally honest because that’s why they invited you. One time I went to a focus group and I said their skincare brand reminded me of a stray cat! Their commercials were very annoying.
One time I went to a focus group and I said their skincare brand reminded me of a stray cat!
As you get older, it’s important to know how to articulate your opinion and persuade people, so focus groups are good practice. Focus groups give you a seat at the table. As you level up your career, you’ll be prepared.
Focus groups are also unique because it’s ok be to less filtered. They picked you based on demographics or interests and they want to know your immediate reactions. At work, it’s more important to be polite, especially if you’re giving feedback about something a colleague created.
Attending focus groups piqued my curiosity about the advertising industry, so I’m happy about how they motivated me to pursue my current career. Sometimes I stayed after it ended to chat with the researcher. Moderating conversations and collecting feedback is a big part of my job now!
Now that I work in marketing full-time, I’m disqualified from market research. That’s why you’ve got to do it while you’re a student! You won’t have any conflicts. I’ve even tried to pretend that I do customer service, but that didn’t help. I wouldn’t lie to make an extra $100.
Market research has changed and now it’s more common to see virtual opportunities. It certainly makes it more convenient, but then I wouldn’t have that long-lost Facebook friend who I met in a waiting room!
I encourage you to do market research with reputable companies. If you’re lucky, you might get to see what it’s like on the other side of the wall someday!