Read time: 4 mins

Back from maternity leave, and oh boy (not just my son), do I have a little wisdom to share with you. First, to all of you who told me things would change—well, you were absolutely right, and I owe you an apology for ever doubting it. And yes, the love is so immense and indescribable that your heart feels like it could burst! But let me tell you, being a new mom is like stepping into a delightful sitcom, and I have to admit, working in market research isn’t too different in some surprising ways.

Here are the parallels I found between motherhood and market research:

Diaper Dynamics vs. Data Changes

Juggling diaper changes and data updates—both are frequent, unpredictable, and keep you on your toes! Just when you think you’ve got it all figured out, a new surprise comes along. (More later on my own qual findings with different diaper, wipes, and bottle brands- what worked what didn’t work)

Gas Grins vs. False Positives

Those precious baby grins that turn out to be because of gas? It’s like in market research when you see those initial positive data spikes—they’re not always what they seem! Sometimes it’s a little wind!

Baby Sounds vs. Consumer Feedback

Adorable baby sounds are just like the varied and surprising feedback from consumers.  Learning the sounds and cries are like solving a cute little mystery.

Spit-Up Surprise vs. Unexpected Results

The joy of getting spit-up on right after changing into your favorite outfit is just like getting unexpected results in market research—everything seems neat and tidy, then suddenly, chaos! You may have to change your direction or shirt!

Ninja Reflexes vs. Agile Responses

Babies flail like they’re auditioning for a circus, and in market research, you need to be just as quick when new trends pop up. Whether its new flavors, fashion, or political climate, you need tools to quickly respond .

Pee Fountain vs. Data Overflow

Have you ever dealt with a baby boy’s pee fountain? It’s like handling a sudden flood of data. One minute, everything’s calm, the next—splash! You’re scrambling to clean up. And no those tee-pee things did not help lol, just need to take cover!

Sleepy Shenanigans vs. Market Lulls

Babies fall asleep in the most unexpected places and positions, and also wake up at the most random times. So just like market lulls where everything seems quiet and then, surprise, something interesting happens. The rush of projects rides its own wave.

Pacifier Ping-Pong vs. Client Feedback Loops

Constantly picking up and returning the pacifier is like handling endless client feedback loops—adjust, respond, repeat!

Bath Time Antics vs. Data Cleansing

Bath time with a baby is splashy and slippery,(also adorable) reminding me of data cleansing. It’s messy,(not as cute) but it’s necessary, and sometimes it’s downright hilarious the responses.

Tiny but Mighty vs. Small Data Insights

Ever notice how surprisingly strong a baby’s grip is? I have had my hair pulled so hard but also watched my baby lift himself. It’s like finding powerful insights in tiny data points—small but mighty!

Facial Expressions vs. Consumer Reactions

Babies have a million of them, from smiles to sad, to even some sarcastic looks (he is totally my kid with those faces) , just like consumers reacting to products. Each one tells a story, and you’ve got to figure out what it means.

Baby Fashion vs. Trend Analysis

Those outfits people gift are pure comedy gold. Some are so many SNAPS!  The little fedora, the mini Sperry’s, and the overalls were just a few that killed me. Also, forget about the baby sunglasses, pure laughter for days.) Just like consumer trends, you never know what you’re going to get, but it’s always entertaining.

Toothless Grins vs. Initial Findings

They melt your heart but are still a work in progress- you know those drooly gums are hinting at what’s to come. Just like initial research findings—promising but not the whole picture.

Flexible Schedules vs. Dynamic Workflows

Days feel different. As someone who  was used to thriving on a schedule filled with meetings, project deadlines, and designated work time, I quickly learned it was okay to not be super productive every second. My mommyhood days needed to be flexible rather than dynamic.

Human Touch vs. Tech Reliance

Technology was helpful at times, like using a Google Home to play music, the monitor, or an app to track feedings. But, just as AI can’t tell you why your baby is crying, market research also relies on human knowledge such as logic and intuition. Sometimes, there’s no substitute for good old-fashioned human insight, especially when reviewing screeners.

So, whether you’re navigating the adorable chaos of a baby’s first months or the dynamic world of market research, it’s all about adaptability, humor, and rolling with the punches!

This article was originally published on LinkedIn on July 9, 2024.

Sample Made Simple.

Increase cost efficiency, feasibility and quality between project and vendor, all on one platform with Zamplia. Take a tour or book a demo with us today.