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Describe a time when you had to make recommendations based on research findings. How did you justify your recommendations?

Survey Researcher Interview Questions
Describe a time when you had to make recommendations based on research findings. How did you justify your recommendations?

Sample answer to the question

In my previous role as a Survey Research Associate, I conducted a study on customer satisfaction for a large retail company. After collecting and analyzing the data, I discovered that the majority of customers were dissatisfied with the company's return policy. Based on these findings, I recommended that the company revise their return policy to better meet customer needs. To justify my recommendation, I presented an in-depth analysis of the data, including charts and graphs that clearly showed the dissatisfaction levels. I also provided examples from other successful companies with customer-friendly return policies. I emphasized the potential impact on customer loyalty and revenue. By showcasing the research findings and connecting them to real-world examples and potential benefits, I successfully convinced the management team to implement the recommended changes.

A more solid answer

In my previous role as a Survey Research Associate, I conducted a comprehensive study on customer satisfaction for a large retail company. Using statistical software, I analyzed the data and found that the majority of customers were dissatisfied with the company's return policy. To justify my recommendations, I prepared a detailed report that included thorough analysis of the data, including measures of central tendency and hypothesis testing. I also conducted a comparative analysis of other successful companies in the industry to showcase best practices. In presenting my findings, I used visual aids such as charts and graphs to make the data more accessible and understandable for stakeholders. I emphasized the potential impact on customer loyalty and revenue, providing specific examples from the data to support my arguments. Through this comprehensive analysis and clear communication of the findings, I successfully convinced the management team to revise the return policy.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the research process, including the use of statistical techniques and tools. It also includes a comprehensive report, comparative analysis, and visual aids to support the justification of recommendations. However, it could still provide more specific examples of the statistical techniques used and how they contributed to the justification of recommendations.

An exceptional answer

In my previous role as a Survey Research Associate, I conducted a rigorous study on customer satisfaction for a large retail company. Using statistical software such as SPSS, I conducted a thorough analysis of the data, employing techniques such as cross-tabulations and regression analysis to uncover meaningful insights. The findings revealed that the dissatisfaction with the company's return policy was a key driver of overall customer satisfaction. To justify my recommendations, I created a comprehensive report that included detailed visuals, such as bar charts and scatter plots, to illustrate the relationship between the return policy and customer satisfaction. I also conducted an in-depth literature review to support my findings and recommendations, citing research from scholarly journals and industry reports. In presenting my recommendations to the management team, I addressed potential concerns and objections by providing supporting evidence for the proposed changes. I emphasized the potential financial impact by estimating the potential increase in customer retention and revenue. My exceptional attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and clear communication of the research findings and their implications enabled me to successfully convince the management team to implement the recommended changes.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer showcases a deep understanding of statistical techniques and their application in research. It includes specific examples of statistical techniques used, such as cross-tabulations and regression analysis, and also mentions the use of SPSS as a statistical software tool. Additionally, it demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the research field through the literature review. The presentation of findings is supported by a variety of visuals and includes addressing potential concerns and objections. The exceptional answer provides a holistic approach to justifying recommendations that goes above and beyond the basic and solid answers.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with statistical software and data analysis techniques, such as SPSS, cross-tabulations, and regression analysis.
  • Practice presenting complex data in a clear and understandable manner using visuals aids like charts and graphs.
  • Stay updated on current research studies and industry best practices.
  • Develop strong analytical and critical thinking skills to draw meaningful insights from research findings.
  • Be prepared to address potential concerns and objections by providing supporting evidence and explaining the potential impact of the recommendations.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Analytical skills
  • Communication skills
  • Justification of recommendations

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