How did you get there? Rachel Hawley

Great to hear from Rachel Hawley who is VP of Special Projects at Fieldwork and has a connection or a recommendation for anything you need – restaurant, resume or research. 

So, how did you get into the industry, and take us through how you got to this point?

My colleague Brenda Raebel referred me to Fieldwork.  They were looking for a utility player to support Sarah Kotva who oversaw business development for the company at the time.  I had never been on the other side of the mirror and it’s been a great ride!

Why should anyone consider a career in market research, data and insights?

Market research is an essential investment for businesses of all sizes, allowing them to understand their target audience, identify opportunities, and mitigate risks. It is fascinating to see the journey from an idea to development and how there are many players that contribute along the way.  Understanding people and turning that understanding into action is at the heart of market research. If you’re curious, analytical, and love solving real-world problems with data and empathy, market research and insights can be a fulfilling and dynamic career.  This career keeps you intellectually engaged, with regular exposure to new trends, tools, and technologies. 

Career paths are rarely without challenges. Can you share an honest moment from your career when things didn’t go quite according to plan, but the lessons remain with you to this day?

I probably could have been more aggressive early in my professional life but I’ve always been comfortable playing the long game and I feel it has paid off.  I have always felt supported and have great relationships with my Fieldwork colleagues. It’s important to align yourself with peers internally and externally that have the same values and goals to enjoy the journey even when it’s imperfect. 

What two things should junior researchers focus on as they progress in their careers? 

Nurture your personal brand and attend the networking happy hours, don’t forget your business card!  I recognize that we live in a very digital world but there is still so much value and ROI in attending industry events and conferences.  The market research community is vibrant and I am proud to be an ambassador of Fieldwork and advocate for in-person research. Great connections and conversations are happening on the pickleball court!

Do you have any advice for our sector?

Create a rewarding experience for our participants and treat them with empathy and respect and show the utmost gratitude.  They are a limited resource and without them, our client’s research would not be possible!

And do you have anyone who has helped your career so far that you’d like to acknowledge and say thanks or give a shout out to? 

Kudos to Sarah Kotva for bringing her energy and being the biggest champion for qualitative research and #facetofacemrx.  Her insight and leadership have helped shape the way I think about my contributions at Fieldwork, and I’m genuinely grateful for the opportunities and encouragement she’s provided along the way.