Message Testing
Message Testing is a research process used by communications professionals to evaluate how well their intended messages resonate with target audiences before launching major campaigns or announcements. It's like a practice run for important communications, where companies try out different versions of their messages with small groups to see which ones work best. Similar terms include communications testing, audience research, or message validation. This helps organizations avoid costly mistakes and ensure their communications will be effective when released to the public.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Message Testing with focus groups to refine company rebranding campaign
Led Message Testing and Communications Testing for product launch materials across 5 market segments
Improved crisis communications strategy through Message Testing with key stakeholders
Typical job title: "Communications Researchers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Communications Researchers
Professional Associations
Online Communities
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you design a message testing strategy for a sensitive corporate restructuring announcement?
Expected Answer: Should discuss comprehensive approach including identifying key stakeholder groups, using multiple research methods (focus groups, surveys, interviews), ensuring confidentiality, and measuring both emotional and rational responses to messages.
Q: Tell me about a time when message testing revealed unexpected results and how you handled it.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in adapting communications strategies based on research findings, managing client/executive expectations, and developing alternative messaging approaches.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to measure message effectiveness?
Expected Answer: Should mention various research techniques like surveys, focus groups, one-on-one interviews, and explain how to use metrics to evaluate message clarity, believability, and impact.
Q: How do you ensure message testing results are actionable?
Expected Answer: Should explain process of translating research findings into practical recommendations, including how to present data to stakeholders and implement changes based on results.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a message testing plan?
Expected Answer: Should identify key elements like target audience selection, research methodology, timeline, budget, and basic metrics for measuring success.
Q: How do you prepare discussion guides for focus groups?
Expected Answer: Should explain basic principles of creating unbiased questions, proper flow of topics, and techniques for encouraging participant engagement.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic research methodologies
- Survey creation and analysis
- Focus group coordination
- Report writing
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced research design
- Stakeholder management
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Research presentation skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic research planning
- Crisis communications testing
- Executive counsel
- Multi-market research management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with qualitative research methods
- Lack of analytical skills
- Poor understanding of different audience segments
- No experience with research ethics and confidentiality
- Unable to translate data into actionable recommendations
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Rewiring Your Interview Templates for Better Candidate Experience
Ghostbusting in Recruitment: How to Keep Candidates Engaged
Resume Screening Reinvented: 9 Unconventional Strategies to Discover Top Talent Hidden in Plain Sight
