You want to break into the market research industry. How can you use mentoring to build your network?

2 Find potential mentors

There are many ways to find potential mentors in the market research industry. You can use online platforms, such as LinkedIn, ResearchGate, or MentorCruise, to connect with professionals who have similar interests, backgrounds, or roles. You can also join industry associations, such as the American Marketing Association, the Insights Association, or the Market Research Society, and attend their events, webinars, or workshops. Another option is to reach out to your alumni network, your professors, or your colleagues, and ask them for referrals or recommendations.

3 Establish a relationship

Once you have identified a potential mentor, you need to establish a rapport and trust with them. You can start by sending them a polite and personalized message, introducing yourself, explaining your interest in market research, and expressing your appreciation for their work. You can also ask them if they are open to mentoring and what their expectations are. If they agree, you can schedule a meeting, either online or in person, to get to know each other better and discuss your goals and needs.

4 Maintain communication and feedback

A successful mentoring relationship requires regular communication and feedback. You should agree on the frequency, duration, and format of your meetings with your mentor, and stick to them. You should also prepare for each meeting, by setting an agenda, doing your homework, and bringing questions or challenges. You should also show gratitude, respect, and enthusiasm to your mentor, and ask them for feedback on your progress and performance.

5 Leverage your network

Mentoring is not only about learning from one person, but also about expanding your network and accessing new opportunities. You should leverage your mentor's network, by asking them to introduce you to other professionals, clients, or partners in the market research industry. You should also network with other mentees, peers, or experts, by joining online communities, forums, or groups related to market research. You should also showcase your skills, projects, or achievements, by creating an online portfolio, a blog, or a social media profile.

6 Give back and pay it forward

Mentoring is a two-way street, where you can also offer value and support to your mentor. You can give back by sharing your feedback, ideas, or insights with your mentor, and helping them with their challenges or goals. You can also pay it forward by becoming a mentor yourself, and sharing your knowledge, experience, or advice with someone who wants to break into the market research industry. This way, you can contribute to the growth and development of the market research community.