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Information Brokers


Overview

Information Brokers

Introduction

Information brokers, sometimes called online researchers or independent information professionals, compile information from online databases and services. They work for clients in a number of different professions, researching marketing surveys, newspaper articles, business and government statistics, abstracts, and other sources of information. They prepare reports and presentations based on their research. Information brokers have home-based operations, or they work full time for libraries, law offices, government...

Quick Facts


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Median Salary

$58,230

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Employment Prospects

Good

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Minimum Education Level

Bachelor's Degree


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Experience

One to two years as an intern or assistant
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Skills

Computer
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Personality Traits

Enterprising
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Earnings

Even if they have a great deal of research experience, self-employed information brokers' first few years in the business may be lean ones, and they should expect to make as little as $20,000 or less per year. As with any small business, it takes a few years to develop contacts and establish a reputation for quality work. Eventually, an online researcher should be able to make a salary equivale...

Work Environment

Most independent researchers work out of their own homes. This means they have a lot of control over their environment, but it also means they're always close to their workstations. As a result, online researchers may find themselves working longer hours than if they had an outside office and a set weekly schedule. Online researchers are their own bosses, but they may work as a member of a team...

Outlook

The Internet has made it easier for people and businesses to conduct their own online research; this is expected to help business for online researchers rather than hurt. As more companies and organizations recognize the vast amount of information available to them, the more they’ll seek out the assistance of online researchers to efficiently compile that information. There will be continuing d...