You’ve missed this freebie, but you’ll find all of the Freebies here.

Did you know that there are market research opportunities available where you can get paid for sharing your opinion? I’m not talking about online opportunities, but local opportunities where you actually go in-person to complete surveys on whatever topic or product is being studied.

My mom is taking advantage of this type of opportunity in her area because it’s a great way to earn a little extra cash. She says that they call a few times a year and ask her questions to find out if she would qualify for a specific study. If she qualifies then they schedule a time and place for her to complete a survey. Usually they are only a few hours, but she has been to some all-day studies as well.

So the big question is – how do you find out about these opportunities in your area? I’ve gathered some tips by using Twitter to chat with those experienced in being part of market research:

* Talk to Friends
That’s how my mom found out about the marketing research office in her neighborhood and how she got signed-up. She’s been getting calls for 15 years now and participated in many market research studies with that office (usually about two each year). They must like repeat survey participants!

* Google “Market Research (your city here)”
Advises Bargain Shopper Lady and many others I chatted with on Twitter because finding these opportunities is all about location!

* Look on Quirks.com
Finance Gets Personal recommends searching Quirks.com because it’s dedicated to marketing research review. You’ll find all kinds of different opportunities but Finance Gets Personal says “Studies where you have to show up (like taste tests and focus groups) generally pay the best. Search for local focus group facilities on Quirks.com and call to see if you can be added to their recruitment lists.”

* Look at The Mall
@SkyesMom says to keep your eyes peeled at the mall for survey people because she says “they are always desperate for people to take surveys and compensate for them.” Just be sure to ask how much time is involved and what the compensation is so you can decide if it’s worth your time.

So keep your eyes and ears peeled for a local opportunity like this in your area. It could be a good way to earn some extra cash, and it usually pays extremely well considering the time required for it. You also might get free products – like Bargain Shopper Lady who got $75 and free building blocks just for sharing her opinion!

If you have done any in-person market research, I’d love to hear about it! How did you find out about it? Did you do just one study, or have you received invitations for multiple studies?

Loading