How to Find a Researcher
People often ask me, "When you research something, you just Google it, right?" Well, no. A professional researcher uses many tools in their trade, Google being just one of them. But, how do you know if you've found the right researcher for you? Here are some questions to consider when seeking a professional researcher.
- What databases do they have access to? A professional researcher needs to have access to more than just Google and Wikipedia. Professional databases such as LexisNexis and ProQuest allow researchers a wider range of authoritative resources than a simple web search.
- What type of training do they have? Researchers come from many different backgrounds. Some have degrees in related subjects like Library and Information Science, or they may have practical experience from years on a job.
- What exactly is their experience in the field of research? How long have they been researching? Do they specialize in a certain topic, or are they a generalist?
- Can they give you examples of projects that they've worked on? Knowing the types of projects that someone has worked on might help you identify if they are suited to your particular task. If a market researcher cannot give examples of market research projects that they have worked on, you might want to continue looking. If you're seeking a generalist, they should be able to give you examples of completed projects in a range of areas.
- Do they belong to any professional organizations? The AIIP (Association of Independent Information Professionals) and the ALA (American Library Association) are two professional organizations to which a researcher might belong.