Paid market research jobs in the UK

There are all sorts of careers in the market research business, but many of them require years of training and/or a degree. This article looks at the work of a market research interviewer, which requires little training. It then investigates the growing number of web surveys which members of the public can take in order to earn extra cash.

What does a market research interviewer do?

Market research interviewers work for research firms by asking members of the public certain questions. These may be in the home or on the street, or more specialised surveys with business people,such as doctors and solicitors. They may work for several companies, and accept as much or as little work as they want. They then plan their schedules, doing all the paperwork involved, and sending the completed survey back to the company.

How to get a job as a market research interviewer.

Some companies advertise in local papers or at the job centre. You can obtain a book of all the market research companies who are registered with the Market Research Society, and write to them, asking if there is work in your area. Finally, why not ask the next interviewer - usually a lady with a clipboard, although the job is becoming increasingly popular with men - whom you see in the street. They may be able to give you details about the company they work for, and even the phone number of their local supervisor.

Training as a market research interviewer

If you are accepted, you will be trained by the first company to employ you. This will probably take 2-4 days. You will learn how to organise your work, where to find suitable respondents, and the best way to ask questions and note down the answers. A large part of the time will involve learning about the social grading system used in market research, where different people are put into groups depending on the job of the main income earner in the household. Finally, you will do a trial survey.

Being paid to take surveys

Surveys online for cash There are an increasing number of these, where you can be paid to take surveys on the web. One of the best companies for this is Valuedopinions.co.uk, but there are several others. The pay is not good, and tends to only be from 50p - £5, although some companies do pay more for taking part in a market research focus group. However, these surveys can be a good way to make a little extra money as and when you feel like it. Not combining both jobs Please note that professional market research interviewers are not allowed to take part in most surveys, so if you get a job as an interviewer, don't expect to take part in online surveys too.