Graduates in Market Research

Words of Advice for Graduate Applicants

In terms of your application, your academic background will be key, so be sure to include details of your degree class (or predicted class) and your “A” level grades. The agency will want to know this and if you don’t include them, will assume the worst.

Any practical experience of market research will be a big plus, so if you have done any mystery shopping or telephone interviewing, be sure to highlight this.

If you get the opportunity to provide a covering letter or e-mail then be sure to make use of it. Most agencies will receive lots of applications and this gives you a chance to shine.

Be clear which role you are applying for. Many agencies may be recruiting for other positions too, so make the recruiter’s life easier and use the same terminology that they use.

Give your reasons for wanting a career in research (and be sure to refer to “Market Research” and not “Marketing Research” and definitely not “Marketing”)

Refer to any relevant experience you have gained as part of your degree (for example using SPSS) or elsewhere.

Be meticulous about spelling, grammar and punctuation. Attention to detail is a key attribute for a successful researcher.

One thing to beware:
Often you’ll find that roles listed as "Graduate Vacancies" actually specify at least a year's experience.