If you're a graduate looking to get into market research and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate market research interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.

Example Market Research Interview Questions:

Why is it important to conduct market research?

This is an open question about the industry you are applying for and is therefore a real opportunity to impress so extend your answer. Key reasons why it is important to conduct market research are so companies can better understand the market they operate in, important research can range from quantitative research like the size of the market and how the market is broken down, to more qualitative research like how consumers perceive a product.

Describe how you have used research methods in the past.

Most candidates will have to bring up an example from their academic past. Try and describe both quantitative and qualitative methods to show that you have a wide range of skills. Some candidates may have an example from some work experience they have conducted. Try and use a recent example and explain how you conducted research particularly effectively.

How would you communicate results of your research to a client?

Write a report or give a presentation, be sure to include the raw data so they can make their own analysis. You need to show an appreciation of how you need to present different data in different ways. If you have collected a large data set then it will be a good idea to use diagrams to present the data whereas if you have conducted an in-depth focus group then you will need to transcribe a report. It is crucial that you show an awareness of effective methods of communication and presentation.

What do you believe is the best way to obtain research?

Market research is a vast industry, with many ways to conduct research. Generally, the key distinction is between quantitative and numerical research versus qualitative research. Some market research roles will include a combination of both, whereas others will be largely quantitative or qualitative.

You can also use the distinction of primary and secondary research. Primary research is new research that you have conducted or carried out in order to find answers to specific questions, and which may include surveys, questionnaires of focus groups. Secondary research however is research that has previously been conducted and may be publicly available information.

What have you done to improve your Market research knowledge in the last year?

Many types of modules at university will offer you excellent examples of where you have conducted research. Modules such as statistics or research methods would be excellent examples of quantitative research modules. Alternatively, any examples of where you have had to conduct an interview or focus group would offer a great example of qualitative research. Questionnaire design is also a fantastic skill to have when looking for a job in market research. Experience with the statistical package SPSS is also highly desirable.

Describe a time when you have had to work to a tight deadline?

Within most market research roles you will have a deadline to meet for a client. This will be set out when you start the project, and you will need to keep to your work deadlines where possible. When interviewing for a market research role it would be good to think about where you have had to deal with an unusual hiccup in a project in order to get it completed on time. Your example should be strong enough to demonstrate your ability to meet client deadlines, which you will ultimately be doing in your role as market researcher.

How important do you think market research is to companies such as us?

Market research is vitally important to most companies as it helps identify business opportunities and helps to make well-informed market decisions about their services. You can then move forward with effective business strategies.

What does the word rapport mean to you?

Rapport is vitally important to your communication skills when searching for a role in market research. You will need to be a strong verbal communicator in order to communicate effectively with your clients, colleagues and even interviewees if you are conducting qualitative research. When interviewing, you should always try to build as much rapport as possible during the time available.