To become a legitimate and competent independent researcher, one may need to obtain training and education credentials in the relevant areas, complete training courses in search tools, and join academic and professional associations. One can also contact professional associations for information and resources, complete educational degrees, and rely on investigative tools. Building a client base may require offering services for free, networking, and advertising.
While you don’t need to have any particular license or credentials to become an independent researcher, you will need to establish the legitimacy and accuracy of your research by demonstrating to potential clients that you are competent and knowledgeable. This may require you to obtain training and education credentials in the areas in which you wish to offer your investigative services. You must also complete training courses in the various types of search tools you plan to use as an independent researcher. Finally, consider joining one or more academic associations that operate in the fields in which you plan to do your research, as well as a professional association organized to support independent researchers.
When you decide to become an independent researcher, you may want to contact a professional association that represents the interests of independent research professionals, sometimes also known as information brokers. These organizations can provide you with information on becoming an independent researcher and direct you to educational and other resources that may be helpful as you begin to develop your practice. Belonging to one of these organizations and adhering to their code of ethics can also help you establish your legitimacy in the field and may even allow you to participate in a customer referral program that can bring you new business.
Many potential clients will want to see that you have some educational credentials that will enable you to produce accurate research results. You may want to complete an educational degree or degrees in the areas you plan to investigate. Another educational option that can help you become an independent researcher is completing a library science degree. Librarians are well trained to conduct research and evaluate reference sources. Also, taking writing classes can be of great help as you are expected to write the results of your research in clear and understandable language.
When you become a freelance investigator, you will need to rely on investigative tools to help you in your work. If you use proprietary databases and software, the companies that own these products can provide you with free or low-cost training in their use. This training can help you establish credibility as an independent investigator, and will also help you produce accurate research results for your clients.
Like any freelancer, you can expect to do a lot of work initially developing your client base. You may want to offer your services for free to a non-profit organization in exchange for their willingness to provide you with a letter of recommendation or a good reference to other potential clients. Contact members of your own social and professional network and ask them to refer you to others. You may also want to advertise in publications, both online and in print, that are commonly read by individuals and companies in the fields for which you provide research services.
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