International Market Research Analyst
Companies in nearly every industry want to better understand their customers. This holds true whether the organization is based in the U.S. or another country. A market research analyst studies market conditions in the relevant geographic area and helps a company understand what consumers want and how to market most effectively to a target audience. An international market research analyst performs these tasks for a company whose target audience is based on foreign soil.
Doing business in multiple countries is complex and so is performing a job with an international focus. Incumbents should have strong research, analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. They should also be detail oriented, good at math, and comfortable with statistical software. However, they need additional skills to perform effectively on an international level. These may include proficiency in a foreign language and knowledge of the geographic area being analyzed.
International market research analyst may need to be proficiency in a foreign language and knowledge of the geographic area being analyzed.
In addition to at least a bachelor degree in business, statistics, market research, or international relations, the individual may need previous international work experience. Understanding the infrastructure and operations of other countries will be helpful in this occupation. If the individual is based abroad, he or she must be authorized to work in that country. Otherwise, possessing the proper credentials to travel abroad may be a requirement. Technology has made international travel less frequent but occasional in-person meetings are usually required.
The individual may conduct market research and analysis for company interests in multiple countries. This requires an understanding of each target market including regulatory and competitive factors. Data considered important may vary by country, making it necessary to be aware of differences. Report layout and presentation style may also vary by country. Therefore, analysts must be skilled in verbal, written, and visual presentation styles.
Similar to domestic work, an international position typically focuses on a certain industry. Agriculture and other commodities are traded internationally and services like health and beauty care are provided on an international level. This position is an interesting prospect for someone who enjoys the work of a market research analyst but has tired of working at a domestic level.
For someone with the right education and work experience, an international market research analyst job opens many doors. Candidates should scrutinize foreign-based job offers carefully because compensation levels and benefit packages vary by country. Whether they are based in the U.S. and deal with an international audience or work abroad, people should find this career very rewarding.
