As a recruiter that has worked with numerous market research suppliers and consultancies in the entertainment landscape, I wanted to share struggles hiring managers face when building their teams.
1. Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes
With technology evolving so quickly, companies need talent that’s not only comfortable with current research tools but also agile enough to learn new ones as they emerge. My clients are always on the lookout for candidates with strong technical skills—those who understand AI, cross-platform analytics, etc. The challenge? These skill sets are in high demand across many industries, and the competition for top-tier talent is fierce. Where we come in is having these candidates in our network. But of course, having the candidates and talent is only half of the battle. Attracting and retaining people who can help them stay at the cutting edge of technology and innovation are struggles hiring managers face.
2. Managing Cross-Platform Data and Insights
Our clients need to have talent that is comfortable with data—lots of it. They are not just looking for researchers; they need people who can turn complex, cross-platform data into clear, actionable insights for clients. Hiring talent with both strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of the entertainment industry is tricky. Finding candidates who can balance technical expertise with a strong grasp of consumer behavior in entertainment is critical, but it’s not always easy to find that combination.
3. Delivering Fast, High-Quality Results
In a world where real-time insights are expected, they need people who can deliver quickly without sacrificing quality. This creates a demand for talent that thrives in fast-paced environments and can juggle multiple projects at once. It’s not just about having the right skill set—it’s about finding individuals who can work under pressure, maintain attention to detail, and consistently produce high-impact insights. The hiring challenge here is identifying that talent is hard to do with just a resume.
Ultimately, the fast-paced, tech-driven nature of the entertainment market research industry demands a unique type of talent—those who are adaptable, tech-savvy, and capable of turning data into stories that guide client decisions. It’s a competitive space, and finding the right people is key to keeping your firm at the forefront of the industry.
If any of these struggles hiring managers face sound familiar, we are happy to connect and discuss how we at Smith Hanley Associates can help! Contact Daniel Wilberschied at dwilberschied@smithhanley.com or LInkedIn.
