Define Your Mentorship Goal
Much like a specific research project, one must define and assess goals before you embark on a mentorship journey. Some companies have established mentorship programs that can help guide you on your path, while in other firms you might have to forge your own way. Assessing the compatibility between potential mentors and your career aspirations is an important aspect of this process.
Clarity, communication and commitment should be top of mind for any kind of mentorship program and relationship. Investing time and effort in the relationship is also key to making it work. Clarity involves defining the goals and expectations of both the mentor and mentee. Communication is essential for maintaining an open dialogue and sharing feedback. Commitment ensures that both parties are dedicated to the relationship and actively participate in the mentoring process.
The benefits of the process, as outlined in an article on LinkedIn, can be useful for those starting out in the field. The mentor, too, benefits from advising and training younger associates and shaping the future of the company as well. “A well-chosen mentorship can provide a significant boost to your professional development, equipping you with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in the dynamic world of market research,” writes LinkedIn, in the guide, “What do you do if you want to find the right mentorship program in the market research industry?” LinkedIn further advises to take these steps in finding the right mentorship:
- Assess Needs: Before diving into the search for a mentorship program, you should thoroughly assess your professional needs and goals. Consider what you hope to achieve through mentorship. Are you looking for specific skill enhancement, career guidance, or networking opportunities? Having a clear understanding of your objectives will help you identify programs that align with your aspirations and provide targeted support. It’s also vital to evaluate your current level of expertise to determine the depth of mentorship required, whether it’s foundational knowledge or advanced strategic guidance.
- Research Options: Once you’ve pinpointed your needs, begin researching potential mentorship programs. Look for programs that specialize in market research and have a proven track record of success. Explore professional associations, industry groups, and online forums where experienced market researchers may offer mentorship opportunities. Don’t overlook the value of local networking events and conferences as sources for connecting with potential mentors who have the expertise you seek.
- Check Credentials: Vetting the credentials of potential mentorship programs is a critical step. Ensure that the mentors involved have a strong background in market research with tangible achievements and recognition in the industry. Investigate their professional history, the breadth of their experience, and their reputation among peers. This scrutiny will help you gauge the quality of the program and the mentor’s capacity to provide valuable insights and advice tailored to the market research sector.
- Evaluate Structure: Different mentorship programs may have varying structures, from one-on-one sessions to group workshops or even virtual learning platforms. Evaluate how each program’s format aligns with your learning style and availability. Some individuals may benefit from the personalized attention of individual mentorship, while others might prefer the collaborative environment of group programs. Consider the duration, frequency, and flexibility of the program to ensure it fits into your schedule and allows for sufficient interaction with your mentor.
- Connect Personally: Once you’ve narrowed down your options, reach out to the mentors or program coordinators for a personal connection. This could be through an introductory email, a phone call, or an in-person meeting. Discuss your goals and expectations to see if there’s a mutual fit. A strong rapport with your mentor is essential for a productive relationship.
- Follow Up: After initial contact, follow up with the mentors or program representatives to clarify any lingering questions or concerns. It’s also an opportunity to discuss the specifics of the mentorship, such as the objectives, milestones, and feedback mechanisms. A thorough follow-up demonstrates your commitment to the mentorship process and helps lay the groundwork for a successful partnership. Remember, finding the right mentorship is not just about what you learn but also how you grow as a professional in the market research industry.
Market Research Takes Grit & Determination
During TMRE 2025, Amy Snow, Chief Research Officer & Chief of Staff at The Wonderful Company, will hold the keynote, “How Grit & Determination Brought Research to the C-Suite.”
Snow serves as Chief Research Officer and Chief of Staff at The Wonderful Company, the $6 billion enterprise behind iconic brands like Wonderful Pistachios, FIJI Water, JUSTIN Wine, Halos, and POM Wonderful. Amy will share her career journey from starting in research at 17-years old to becoming a double C-suite executive. Through hard work and determination, Amy has elevated to increasing positions of influence, leading research for some of the largest brands in the world including Google, Starbucks, Nike, Disney, Amazon, Harley Davidson and Meta. She also sits on the board of nonprofit Section Z, which leverages the power of sports to empower young women. Amy’s own passion for sports set a strong foundation for her success in the C-suite.
From launching new pistachio flavors to monitoring employee engagement to informing a 10-year strategic plan for philanthropy in the Central Valley of California, research is said to have a seat at the table and inform every major strategic decision at The Wonderful Company. In this talk, Amy will discuss the role that mentorship played in her career and her belief in paying it forward. She will also share her proprietary framework that helps others define and articulate their value in the workplace and beyond. Join us to learn more.
Mentoring Up
There is also a bit of trial and error when it comes to mentoring programs, for both the mentor and the mentee. There are bound to be both positive and negative experiences, but doing your research and due diligence could help to provide the best possible outcome.
For some, looking outside the company to external resources may prove a solid option. For example, the Market Research Society (MRS) has outlined its own market research-specific program on, “Mentoring – how it works.” MRS notes, “We have seen firsthand how the partnerships help our members to grow and overcome challenges. Our unique personal matching service ensures we find the best match for you with the information we have and the available mentors.”
Importantly, MRS urges potential mentees to think about what they would like to get out of the experience:
- What outcomes or performance improvements am I looking for?
- What am I prepared to put into the program in order to achieve these outcomes?
- How will I manage my time and energy to put into practice the changes I identify through the scheme?
- How will I ensure my employer will support me to make the changes I want to achieve?
Video courtesy of Market Research Society
