Leveling Up Skills in the Insights Industry

by Laura C. Taylor

At the recent Insights Association North Atlantic Chapter Conference, I had the privilege of moderating a dynamic panel discussion on “Leveling Up Skills to Stay Relevant, Today & Tomorrow.” I was joined by an all-star lineup of industry experts: Jason Fisher, Tiffany Harrison, Frank Kelly, David Lyndon, and Brian Sheil. Each panelist brought a unique perspective to the table—sparking an engaging conversation about what it really means to grow and evolve in today’s ever-changing insights landscape.

Here are my top five takeaways from our panel discussion for anyone looking to level up their skills in the insights industry:

Go Beyond Functional Expertise

Technical skills are just the starting point. What truly sets insights professionals apart today is the ability to consult strategically—with a deep understanding of business growth drivers—activate findings across the organization, and lead with influence. Expanding your capabilities beyond research execution—into storytelling, stakeholder engagement, and change leadership—amplifies your impact across the business.

Double Down on Human Understanding

Yes, AI is reshaping the way we work—but our human ability to interpret emotion, behavior, and context is more important than ever. The future of insights belongs to those who can merge data with empathy to uncover what truly drives consumers. In a tech-forward world, human understanding is still a competitive edge.

Build a Broad Toolkit

Today’s business challenges are increasingly complex and require multi-modal research approaches. That means broadening your skill set across quantitative and qualitative methodologies, and embracing data analytics and emerging platforms. The more tools you have in your toolkit, the more adaptable—and valuable—you become.

Commit to Continuous Learning

If there’s one universal truth, it’s that the learning never stops. Investing in your professional growth—whether through training courses and certifications, mentorship, reading, or conferences—ensures you stay relevant and resilient. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity in a fast-evolving industry.

Culture Matters

Companies aren’t just hiring for skill—they’re hiring for culture contribution. That means bringing fresh thinking, curiosity, and a collaborative mindset. Technical knowledge will get you in the door, but your ability to enrich team dynamics and continuously bring in new ideas will help you thrive long-term.

Final Thoughts

Our panel discussion made one thing clear: staying relevant in the insights industry requires both a sharp eye on the future and a deep commitment to growth. Whether you’re an early-career researcher or a seasoned leader, now is the time to invest in your evolution.

Big thanks again to our fantastic panelists and everyone who joined the conversation. Let’s keep pushing our industry—and ourselves—forward.

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