In this new monthly column, we will choose a dilemma based on an actual occurrence and seek answers from a range of people (research agencies, client-side and outside the industry when appropriate).

THE DILEMMA FOR THE INAUGURAL COLUMN IS:
Researcher labours over and submits proposal for a very large job. Client wants to conduct interviews during a particular week to assist in selection of supplier. Researcher says a long-standing overseas family holiday has been booked and asks for interview to be delayed by one week. Client says no, there can be no extension.

‘Think outside the square and offer a solution - participation in the interview before the family holiday, request an opportunity to prepare reply to set interview questions ahead of time - either in writing or using a clever alternative medium. Organise a video conference call from wherever you are going. Any client that isn't impressed by your enthusiasm and eagerness to be accommodating probably wouldn't be worth working with anyway!'
Tracy Sheridan
Research & insights manager,
Virgin Mobile Australia

‘If a client briefs you it should be because you're a serious candidate and so worth making an effort to speak to.  If there's no flexibility, I'd go on holidays; they aren't seriously considering you anyway. If they were serious they'd work around you. It's only a week, every big project blows out by more than that at the end and we all know it... and build it into the timeline! Bon voyage!'
Tiina Raikko
Director, Fuel
(formerly Unilever insights manger)

‘Assuming the client isn't being completely unreasonable, and there is no room to push, I would build comparable skills into the project team sufficient to allow the researcher to take their well earned break. If it was me who was going away and I'd poured intellectual effort, emotional energy and much time into the proposal, I'd arrange to dial in to the meeting to be present in voice, if not in body!'
Karen Phillips
Managing director, Sydney, The Leading Edge

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