Published: 8/12/2024
Rashad Naouchi
Sr. Account Director, Dynata
Walking into a new industry can feel a bit like stepping into a foreign country. The language is different, the customs are strange, and the locals can spot a newcomer from a mile away. But that’s exactly what makes the journey so exhilarating. Hi, I’m Rashad, the new guy at this buzzing hive of market research, and I’m here to tell you about my adventure of transitioning from selling pharmacy services to long-term care facilities to now selling Dynata’s market research solutions.
You might be thinking, “Pharmacy services to market research? That’s like jumping from a slow-moving river into the roaring ocean!” And you’d be right. But let me assure you, I’ve always been a strong swimmer.
When I first joined the market research industry, I was stepping into uncharted territory. The world of market research, particularly with a focus on selling Dynata’s products, was vastly different from the healthcare services I was accustomed to. However, my experience in the healthcare sector taught me the importance of understanding client needs and building strong relationships, which are equally crucial in market research.
One of the most significant adjustments has been learning the intricacies of Dynata’s offerings. Dynata provides a wealth of data solutions, from survey platforms to audience insights and analytics. Understanding these products required a steep learning curve that I am still currently navigating, but my previous role prepared me well for this. In the healthcare industry, I was accustomed to navigating complex systems and regulations, and this experience has proven invaluable in understanding the technical aspects of market research tools.
What excites me the most about my new role is the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective to my clients. Coming from a different industry, I can offer unique insights and approaches that might not be as apparent to those who have spent their entire careers in market research. I’ve found that my background in healthcare allows me to approach problems with a different mindset, focusing on holistic solutions that consider various facets of a client’s needs.
A crucial aspect of my role at Dynata involves audience activation, a priority that lies at the heart of what we offer to our MRA’s. Audience activation is all about leveraging data to engage and interact with targeted audiences effectively. Dynata excels in this area by providing advanced tools and insights that enable our clients to not only reach the right audiences but also to understand their behaviors and preferences deeply. This process involves activating audience segments in a way that maximizes engagement and drives actionable results. For clients, this means having the ability to run highly targeted campaigns and gather precise insights that directly inform their strategies. My focus is on helping clients navigate these tools and implement them in ways that truly activate their audiences, ensuring that their market research efforts are not just comprehensive but also impactful.
In my previous role, consulting with clients was a significant part of my job. I learned to listen carefully to their concerns, understand their goals, and develop tailored solutions. This consultative approach has been directly applicable in market research. Clients appreciate a partner who takes the time to understand their unique challenges and provides guidance that goes beyond the surface level. By leveraging my experience, I can offer a consultative approach that adds significant value to their projects.
Another critical aspect is the ability to adapt and be flexible. The market research industry is dynamic, with constantly evolving technologies and methodologies. My background in healthcare, where adaptability was crucial, has prepared me well for this environment. Being open to new ideas and willing to pivot strategies when necessary has been essential in navigating this new landscape.
As I continue to grow in my role, I am committed to continuously improving my knowledge and skills. The transition from healthcare to market research has been a significant change, but it has also been a chance to bring a fresh perspective and make a meaningful impact. By leveraging my past experiences and embracing the opportunities in this new industry, I aim to provide exceptional value to my clients and help them navigate their market research challenges effectively.
In conclusion, stepping into the market research industry from a background in pharmacy services has been a transformative experience. It has allowed me to bring a unique perspective and approach to my new role, focusing on adding value and consulting clients through their projects. While the journey has had its challenges, the opportunity to grow and make a difference in a new industry has been incredibly rewarding.