BA in Psychology (research experience), entry level job in marketing research

[JosephM]

I graduated with a bachelors in psychology June 2010. I graduated from an institution with a strong focus on research. During my undergrad I worked in two research laboratories and acquired experience and skills in statistics and research methodology. I have become interested in marketing research and would like to take my experience in social science research and transition into marketing research. I am having difficulty figuring out where to start this transition. Does anybody have any suggestions on where to look for entry level positions. Also, I have no business or marketing experience, I only have research experience in the domain of psychology. Do employers take people for entry level positions with this type of background.


Thanks,

[jdstat]

From my own recent post-graduation job search, I can tell you it's possible, but it may depend on what the job market is like where you are living. I graduated in NY and started my job search there, sending out 60+ resumes with only one call back. Pretty disheartening. When I sent out resumes in CA, I sent out about 12 resumes and had 5 companies calling for interviews.

I'm working as an analyst, and my background is somewhat different from yours, but the company did just hire someone with a background in psychology and social science as a project associate. Do some research online to figure out what sort of position you feel qualified for (analysis and writing reports? project management? etc.) and what the position entails - then tailor your resume and interview responses to show that your background is relevant.

I'm sure some of the forum goers that have been doing this for a long time can offer a different perspective, but I figured hearing from someone recently in your shoes might help.

[Farkitresearch]

Woo first post!

Hello JosephM. I was in a similar situation 6-9 months ago when I decided market research was right for me. As someone with no research experience let me tell you how I went about the process.

Precursors/things in my favour:
BA - Psychology
1 years work experience/full time experience in an advertising agency
Many years (5+) of hospitality/work experience

The above were important ingredients, but the following really made me stand out from the crowd:
1) Go get part-time work in a CATI or fieldwork company. Yes - it's hard, banial work - but if you're serious about getting a job in market research - showing that you're IN the industry while looking for your first break is a requirement.
2) Turn your resume into a 'report'. Remember that companies present their data as reports, and assisting with creating them will be one of the first jobs you'll be doing. Show that you can do that by making a fantastic, professional looking resume report that highlights your work experience in a meaningful way
3) Apply everywhere. When you don't hear anything - CALL. When you're asked in for an interview research the crap out of what they do and add it to your resume/report.

Good luck finding your way in the industry - I'm loving it so far!

[JosephM]

Thanks guys for your input. Your advice helps a lot. Most of my knowledge is in the area research methods and statistics. The program I graduated from was at a university that was very research focused so the psych program I was in stressed research methods. My problem is that I have no marketing or business experience. Getting part time work sounds like a great way to get that vital experience in the industry.

[psychresearch]

I know a bunch of people who found that the best thing to do was to do a one year program in business and then test out the job market (maybe a Masters of Statistics in Business). Right now I've heard the market is kinda weak for just B.A.'s

Mike
EP