Focus Group
A Focus Group is a research method where a small group of people (usually 6-12) are brought together to discuss products, services, or ideas. It's like a guided conversation led by a moderator to gather detailed feedback and opinions. Companies use focus groups to understand what customers think before launching new products or advertising campaigns. Think of it as a small-scale preview audience that helps businesses make better decisions about their products or marketing strategies.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Focus Group sessions to test new product concepts, resulting in successful campaign direction
Managed 20+ Focus Groups across different demographics to inform brand strategy
Led Focus Group research that shaped award-winning advertising campaign
Typical job title: "Focus Group Moderators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Focus Group Moderators
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle a focus group when one participant is dominating the conversation?
Expected Answer: A senior moderator should explain techniques like direct questioning to other participants, using body language to acknowledge but redirect conversation, and establishing ground rules at the start to ensure balanced participation.
Q: How do you ensure focus group findings are actionable for clients?
Expected Answer: Should discuss methods of organizing feedback into clear themes, connecting insights to business objectives, and presenting recommendations with specific examples from the sessions.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What factors do you consider when recruiting focus group participants?
Expected Answer: Should mention demographic requirements, screening criteria, group dynamics, and how to ensure a diverse but relevant participant mix for the research objectives.
Q: How do you structure a focus group discussion guide?
Expected Answer: Should explain the flow from general to specific questions, timing considerations, and how to build in flexibility while ensuring all key topics are covered.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the ideal size for a focus group and why?
Expected Answer: Should know that 6-12 participants is standard, explaining that this size allows for diverse opinions while ensuring everyone has time to contribute.
Q: What are the basic components of a focus group report?
Expected Answer: Should mention key findings, participant quotes, methodology, demographic breakdown, and recommendations for next steps.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Note-taking during sessions
- Participant recruitment assistance
- Basic report writing
- Discussion guide preparation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Independent moderation of groups
- Discussion guide development
- Analysis and insight generation
- Client presentation skills
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex project management
- Advanced moderation techniques
- Strategic recommendations
- Team training and supervision
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience with different types of discussion guides
- Poor listening and communication skills
- Lack of experience in managing group dynamics
- Unable to demonstrate objective analysis skills
- No understanding of research ethics and participant privacy
Related Terms
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