Mark your calendars! This year, industry leaders will convene at dozens of market research conferences across the United States and abroad. These conferences have much to offer (beyond the happy hours). They present the latest news and trends, allow for the exchange of ideas and best practices, and provide ample networking opportunities.
Of course, busy market research professionals can’t possibly attend every single conference. So we’ve identified our top picks below – including several that Op4G will be attending or sponsoring (*). We hope to see you there!
- The Quirk’s Event*: Since launching the Quirk’s Marketing Research Review over 30 years ago, Quirk’s has become the largest media provider in the industry. In 2015, the company decided to expand its offerings further by adding the Quirk’s Event, an “inclusive event created for the entire marketing research and insights community” which regularly attracts over 1200 attendees. This year, the event will be held both virtually and in person. The in-person events will be hosted in 3 cities: Chicago* (April 11-12), London (May 4 – 5), and New York* (July 20 – 21). Each event will feature presentations, case studies, and demonstrations on a wide range of market research topics. It will also include mixers and cocktail hours where participants can quickly exchange information by pressing together their interactive badges. Count us in!
- MRMW*: Also known as Market Research in the Mobile World, MRMW is perhaps the largest and most prestigious global conference series focusing on mobile, innovation, and high-tech market research. This year, the event plans to welcome participants to its conferences in Atlanta* (June 15-16), Berlin (September 14 – 15), and Asia (virtual, July 6 – 7). The agendas will reflect feedback from past delegates and thought leaders, ensuring that content is relevant. Topics will range from local trends to global perspectives. And, as in previous years, MRMW will likely unveil some high-tech prototypes for insight generation!
- IIeX North America*: Founded in 1962, GreenBook knows a thing or two about inspiring, informing, and connecting market research professionals. This year, the company’s Insight Innovation Exchange (IIeX) North America conference will take place in Austin, Texas (April 19 – 20). GreenBook hopes that the 8th annual conference will be its biggest yet, with over 100 speakers, 1200 participants, and 5 tracks. Sessions will be just 20 minutes long (so participants can pack more in) and will cover such topics as research workflow, brand tracking, artificial intelligence, and research ethics. Whatever your area of interest or level of expertise, IIeX North America will have something for you!
- TMRE: The Market Research Event (TMRE) is also heading to the Lone Star State! From November 14 – 16, the conference will unite top insight executives from around the world in San Antonio, Texas. Participants can expect powerful presentations on cutting-edge topics, more client-side practitioners than any other industry event, and an innovative matchmaking platform to optimize networking. Plus, there is sure to be a visionary keynote speaker – past speakers have included New York Times bestseller Malcolm Gladwell, NFL legend Payton Manning, and Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman.
- ESOMAR Congress: This isn’t just a regular year for ESOMAR (originally the European Society for Opinion and Marketing Research). It’s the organization’s 75th or “diamond” anniversary! To mark the occasion, ESOMAR promises a special edition of its annual congress event. Scheduled to occur in Toronto, Canada from September 18 – 21, the ESOMAR Congress will showcase the best business success stories and solutions in the field of market research. Additionally, after several years of virtual handshakes, the congress will incorporate unique networking experiences for participants. Come meet insights and analytics colleagues from around the world!
- AAPOR Annual Conference: The American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) Annual Conference is the “premier forum” for discussing the latest advances in public opinion and survey research. The event, taking place in Chicago from May 11 – 13, will have all the conference staples: plenary discussions, breakout sessions, an exhibit hall, networking dinners, etc. But unlike most conferences, it will also offer 8 half-day courses on everything from research budgeting to data collection techniques to data visualization. Furthermore, students and young professionals will benefit from targeted welcome and meet-up activities.
In the coming weeks, take some time to research and register for a 2022 conference (or a few!). Consider your personal—or organizational—needs, goals, interests, and availability. You may also want to consult other experts or trusted colleagues in the field. Then book your plane ticket and enjoy!
