Are you not afraid to voice your opinion in a group? Are you looking to earn some extra cash? Then focus groups might be for you. A focus group is a type of research where you’re paid to express your opinions and beliefs about a certain topic, product, or service. Researchers are often looking to test a product or idea before it goes to market. Common group topics include banking, politics and beer.
Advertising is everywhere today, so why not get paid for watching it? You’ll often watch TV commercials for new products and services at groups. If you live in a big city like Calgary, Toronto, or Vancouver, you can earn quite a lot from attending focus groups. I’ve been participating in focus groups since 2010 and I’ve managed to earn over $2,000. Found groups are a fun way to earn some extra cash.
What’s a Focus Group?
There are two main types of focus groups: in person and online. Online is convenient, as you can complete it from the comfort of home. While I’ve done a couple online focus groups, most focus groups I’ve participated in have been in person.
Focus groups are a lot like online surveys, but they pay a lot better. The incentives can vary a lot – I’ve been paid as little as $35 for one hour to as much as $200 for three hours. Focus groups typically range in length from one to two hours.
Qualifying for Focus Groups
Similar to surveys, you’ll complete a screener to see if you qualify. What’s a screener? It’s a series of questions to see if you fit the profile the researchers are looking for. Sometimes researchers are looking for a specific demographic; other times they’re looking for a wide range of ages and genders. The screener can take place over the phone or online.
It’s important to provide a phone number you’ll be available at during the day. If you miss the phone call, the group may already be filled up by the time you call back. It’s important to answer the questions honestly, as you could be blacklisted if you lie. If you pass the screener, you’ll be invited to attend the focus group. You’ll usually need to wait for a confirmation phone call with the exact address of the group.
The Day of the Focus Group
It’s important to show up on time for focus groups. In fact, you’re almost always asked to show up 10 to 15 minutes early. This gives the researchers plenty of time to sign you in and for you to complete any necessary questionnaires. There are often refreshments, such as sandwiches, cookies and sliced fruit.
Showing up early can pay off – sometimes researchers overbook. This has happened to me a couple times. It’s actually good news because you’re sent home early with pay. If you can’t attend the focus group, make sure you phone to cancel. If you fail to provide enough notice (usually 48 hours), you’ll most likely be banned from attending any further groups.
During the Focus Group
You’ll usually sit at a table with a group of people. The researcher will discuss the purpose of the study. The group is almost always recorded. There is usually a two-way mirror for researchers to observe the group. You’ll be asked a series of questions about the discussion topic. It’s important to speak up and voice your opinion. Time flies when you’re at a focus group on an interesting topic – before you know it, it will be over. You’ll line up outside, sign out and get paid – it’s as easy as that!
While focus groups are a good way to earn some cash, you shouldn’t depend on them for steady income. You usually can’t participate if you’ve attended a focus group within the past 6 months with the same company (although there’s nothing stopping you from participating with other companies).
Here are research companies I’ve attended focus groups with:
Have you ever attended a focus group before? Do you have any research companies to suggest?
Sean Cooper is the bestselling author of the book, Burn Your Mortgage: The Simple, Powerful Path to Financial Freedom for Canadians, available now on Amazon and at Chapters, Indigo and major bookstores, and as an Audiobook on Amazon, Audible and iTunes.