This is a guest post from one of our regular readers. Hope you enjoy the post!
Manufacturers must get feedback from consumers of their products. If not it would have a negative impact on sales. Market research and consumer feedback is essential to the success of any product.
1. The Questions Don’t Apply To Me
The number one complaint from persons who have signed up to take surveys is that the questions don’t apply to them. All online survey companies ask the survey taker to answer specific questions and give pertinent information as to their likes and interests. If the survey takers profile indicates they have knowledge or have worked in banking and finance then they can expect to receive surveys along those lines.
2. I Got What I Paid For
Getting what you pay for should not apply to being paid for completing surveys. As with any other business you should never pay to be allowed to work. Imagine walking into a fast food restaurant or a retail store and stating that you will pay them a monthly fee if they will let you work. There are online survey companies that require sign up fees and monthly membership dues. These should be avoided.
3. Surveys Are Only Done Online and By Phone
Market research must be performed to maintain sufficient interest in the manufacturers’ product. There may be two almost identical items on a store shelf. If one of them is selling and the other is not the manufacturer will want to find out why it doesn’t sell. These questions can be asked on a survey to purchasers of either product.
It may be an online questionnaire or the survey could be carried out by an independent contractor, or a merchandiser in the store.
Manufacturers must utilize any and all resources to remain competitive.
4. Assuming All Survey Companies Want Something for Nothing
There are several legitimate companies online and otherwise that are happy to pay substantial fees to someone who can provide the information they need. The survey may be a simple comparison of certain foods and other purchases. It may involve getting opinions from consumers on new products or new product names. The most reputable survey companies offer choices in receiving payments for survey work. Either cash or reward points that can be turned into cash may be offered. Once a certain amount of reward points has accumulated they can be exchanged for cash, gift cards or store credits.
Brendan Mitchell is a blogger who relies on the Australian business directory HirePulse for all his marketing needs from hiring people to help survey his customers to finding the right advertising agency.