The most popular reason that people take part in paid research is to earn a bit of extra money. The brands whose projects we manage have offered some incredible incentives in the past, from cash to vouchers, which the participants on our panel have regularly enjoyed!
Following up as a very close second reason for people taking part, however, is the pleasure of meeting new people who share similar passions to you.
For example, if you have a passion for fashion or are eager to make positive changes for the environment, paid market research is a wonderful way of meeting people who feel the same way!
Often this takes place face-to-face during a focus group, but it can also happen from the comfort of your own home in the form of an online community.
“Hang on… what’s an online community?” I hear you ask.
To answer your question here is a quick but comprehensive guide on how online communities work, with a little exploration as to whether paid market research online is a suitable way for you to get involved.
What is an online community?
Online communities are a reasonably new type of paid research that are becoming increasingly popular with big brands and participants. An online community is a group of people who take part in discussions via a computer, app or mobile – something we are all increasingly comfortable with as we make greater strides through the digital age.
Depending on the length of the community that you could take part in, online communities can help you build up a real sense of camaraderie and even develop new friendships as you get to know your fellow participants.
What do I have to do in an online community?
Paid market research online usually takes the form of specific exercises and tasks that will be outlined to you before you agree to take part. These can include things such as:
- Video diaries – filming yourself talking about your opinions and experiences
- Blogging – sharing about your thoughts and experiences in a written format
- Mood boards – gathering images, quotes and materials to visually sum up your ideas
- Uploading images – such as your own photos and/or drawings
The tasks are focussed on delivering your opinion on a product or service and take place remotely, sometimes using an online platform created by the brand, or a social media platform such as Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
Why should I take part?
There are so many amazing reasons to get involved in paid market research in general, but taking part in online communities has some particularly good benefits!
If you’re a busy person with loads of commitments – for example, if you have children to take care of, or you do shift work – online communities are the perfect way for you to take part in paid market research.
The length of time you’ll need to commit varies, but participants usually only have to log on for about 15 minutes a day, meaning that you can fit the research into your day easily when you have a spare few minutes.
You can also take part in paid market research online from anywhere – your sofa, in bed, on your commute, or during a lunch break at work – making them totally flexible. Better yet, you won’t have to take time off work or pay a babysitter if you want to take part.
What could I get paid?
The amount you get paid for online communities varies on how long the community lasts. An online community lasting a year is a big commitment, but that will be reflected in what you will receive compared to if you take part in one that only lasts a week.
A good rule of thumb is to expect somewhere between £40 and £150, but you will be told how much you’re going to get before the research starts.
Bear in mind that your incentive won’t always be cash and could be a gift certificate or a cheque, but, again, you’ll be told this in advance before you decide whether you’d like to take part.
Where can I find paid online community opportunities?
At Angelfish Opinions, we have new paid market research opportunities constantly on the go – and getting started is as simple as signing up to us here!
However, when you start looking for opportunities, it’s important that you know how to spot the difference between a legit and a fake market research company. Take a look at the company’s reviews, such as on Trustpilot, check out their social media profiles, website and contact details, just to be on the safe side.
Want to get involved?
If you fancy joining thousands of others in making some extra cash from the comfort of their own home, sign up now to take part in paid market research online.
