Whatever your reasons, contract positions can really add to your cv and boost your career prospects in market research provided you make most of each contract job, here are some top tips to help you do just that: 

1)      Make yourself indispensable.

In short, prove your worth as a valued member of the research team and you may get your contract extended or asked back.

2)      Learn as much as you can.

Each research company has their own unique approach to projects and slightly different methodologies. By soaking up as much as you can while you are in a contract position, you are not only adding to your own skills but can improve your career prospects by taking “ best practice” with you to the next market research assignment. If you are offered any training during a contract position whether it is in-house or external, we recommend that you grab it with both hands. 

3)      Network.

Once you are in a company, take the time to speak to other managers/other divisions. The more contacts you have and the better you make yourself known within a company, the more chances you have of another team taking notice of you and snapping you up.

4)      Be respectful.

This may sound obvious! An employer should make it clear to you who you would be working for /reporting to and some house rules such as dress code, working hours, breaks etc.  If these are not made clear, make sure you ask. Keeping in line with company protocol will only increase your chances for a renewed contract and a glowing a reference.

5)      Know what is expected.

Make sure you know what a company expects you to achieve in your time with them.  If you know exactly what they expect to be completed by the end of the project/ within a certain time frame it helps you plan your time and focus on the task at hand.

6)      Keep your cv up to date.

Every time you start a new contract position add that to your cv and keep it as up to date, do not leave any positions off your cv no matter how short.  Do make it clear that the positions are temporary or contract positions, that way a prospective employer or recruiter will know you haven’t job hopped for no reason! 

7)      Keep in touch with your Recruiter.

Let them know how the position is going and let them know when you are ready to start looking for your next contract. We recommend starting to look 6 weeks before the end of your contract, that way you are giving yourself the maximum potential for consistent employment in research if that is what you want.  

8)      Be flexible.

Your employer may ask you to work extra days or to carry out tasks normally outside of your level. If you can help them out then do, this will add to your reputation as a good contractor. 

9)      Be honest.

About your intentions, if your long term aim is a permanent job in market research, let your temporary employer know and ask them to facilitate any time off for interviewing.

10)   Paper work.

If you are set up as self-employed and are invoicing employers directly, make sure your invoices/time sheets are submitted on time so you get paid when you should and don’t forget to do your tax returns!