What does the MRS offer its members?
In the competitive world of market research, one name assures you of
instant recognition and respect - that of MRS.
MRS is the 'voice of your profession'. Our
role is to represent and communicate good practice in research to the
business community, government and the public; to award accreditation
and to provide support for our members.
Becoming a member of MRS
offers countless benefits, including:
Professional recognition
Progression through the MRS
membership grades matches your experience and accomplishments. The
main professional grade of Full Member is within the reach of all competent
researchers with appropriate experience. The designation MMRS conveys
to research users, colleagues, employers and others the attainment of
professionalism. Those who make an exceptional contribution to research
may be elected as Fellows (FMRS).
Professional standards
All members of the Society must comply with the MRS
Code of Conduct which is enforced through a disciplinary process.
This is the primary means by which market research remains a self-regulated
profession. A range of guidelines and advisory services provide support
to members in practical implementation of the Code.
The Code of Conduct embodies the principles of confidentiality and
transparency. It provides protection to research users, respondents
and to researchers themselves. The Code has the confidence of the business
community, government and regulators. It embraces the principles of
data protection legislation. Membership of MRS is your way of showing
that you subscribe to these ethical and legislative principles.
Professional development
MRS is the official awarding body in the UK for vocational qualifications
in market research. Membership of MRS provides you personally with
a lifelong 'portable' accreditation of professionalism. This applies
regardless of change of employer, location or even occupation within
market research or beyond.
MRS supports researchers in their career
development through a comprehensive range of recognised qualifications
and high-quality vocational development schemes.
In addition MRS members are eligible for substantial discounts on competitively
priced training
courses, seminars and conferences,
which are designed to enhance skills, knowledge and professional ability
across a range of disciplines.
Representation to government and media
Research is sometimes overlooked, misunderstood or misrepresented. Through
its public affairs
and media relations programmes,
MRS seeks to ensure that research and the legitimate needs of research
practitioners are protected. This is done by articulating the case for
market research, providing examples of effectiveness and by lobbying
opinion formers and decision makers.
Information
We keep you up to date with what's happening in market research
through a series of publications,
as well as access to LitSearch, the MRS literature sourcing service, and collection of books and journals.
Networking opportunities
Sharing experience with other researchers and with those who are users
of research brings many rewards. Networking
activities, the annual Conference, the Research Awards and many other events yield opportunities
to get together.
Encouragement of excellence
Both MRS Conference and the
International Journal
of Market Research provide a framework for researchers to exchange
knowledge, provoke debate, and enhance presentation and communication
skills. The related Awards schemes
encourage and symbolise the attainment of excellence. MRS Fellowship
adds an additional dimension to the Society's recognition of those who
have not only achieved success in their careers, but who have also made
outstanding contributions to market research and/or the Society. |
