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What jobs are available for someone who is interested doing DEI research in media studies?
I worked with the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative in college and really enjoyed myself! I would love to find work doing similar stuff (assisting in research pertaining to diversity in media). I'm happy to do either qualitative research, or data input and analysis, which is what I was working on in school. It's difficult to find work pertaining to this, as most companies and organizations are smaller. How can I break into this industry?
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3 answers
Updated
Victoria’s Answer
I've been a DEI practitioner for over twenty years. DEI is embedded in every industry and field. Many individuals start in Comms or Media and then, from there, focus by adding DEI principles and practices to every project. This will allow you to be broad yet DEI-focused.
Updated
Aman’s Answer
It’s great to hear you’re passionate about DEI research in media! Here are some paths to consider and steps to help you break into the industry:
1. **Look for Research Assistant Roles**: DEI-focused research often happens within universities, think tanks, and specialized research initiatives like Annenberg. Many universities or institutes (e.g., Pew Research Center, UCLA’s Social Science Research Institute) have DEI research programs, even if not specifically media-focused.
2. **Media Companies with DEI Departments**: Larger media organizations, like Netflix, Warner Bros., and Disney, increasingly invest in DEI initiatives. They may have positions or internships within DEI departments focused on data analysis, content diversity audits, and qualitative research to guide programming.
3. **NGOs and Advocacy Groups**: Groups focused on representation in media, like GLAAD, Color of Change, and Women in Film, often conduct or support DEI research. Roles here might not always be labeled as “research” but could involve content analysis, advocacy, and data collection that aligns with your experience.
4. **Freelance and Consulting**: Smaller media organizations or DEI initiatives may need part-time or project-based help with research and analysis. Look into contract opportunities or freelance work to build experience and connections in the field.
5. **Networking and Professional Associations**: Engage with groups like the Society of Professional Journalists or organizations hosting DEI events, as well as LinkedIn groups focused on DEI and media studies. Connecting with professionals can lead to hidden job opportunities.
Consider leveraging your experience at Annenberg to reach out directly to similar initiatives, pitch your experience, and explore open or contract roles. The field is growing, and with your background, you’re well-prepared to make an impact!
1. **Look for Research Assistant Roles**: DEI-focused research often happens within universities, think tanks, and specialized research initiatives like Annenberg. Many universities or institutes (e.g., Pew Research Center, UCLA’s Social Science Research Institute) have DEI research programs, even if not specifically media-focused.
2. **Media Companies with DEI Departments**: Larger media organizations, like Netflix, Warner Bros., and Disney, increasingly invest in DEI initiatives. They may have positions or internships within DEI departments focused on data analysis, content diversity audits, and qualitative research to guide programming.
3. **NGOs and Advocacy Groups**: Groups focused on representation in media, like GLAAD, Color of Change, and Women in Film, often conduct or support DEI research. Roles here might not always be labeled as “research” but could involve content analysis, advocacy, and data collection that aligns with your experience.
4. **Freelance and Consulting**: Smaller media organizations or DEI initiatives may need part-time or project-based help with research and analysis. Look into contract opportunities or freelance work to build experience and connections in the field.
5. **Networking and Professional Associations**: Engage with groups like the Society of Professional Journalists or organizations hosting DEI events, as well as LinkedIn groups focused on DEI and media studies. Connecting with professionals can lead to hidden job opportunities.
Consider leveraging your experience at Annenberg to reach out directly to similar initiatives, pitch your experience, and explore open or contract roles. The field is growing, and with your background, you’re well-prepared to make an impact!
Thank you so much for such a detailed answer! It definitely has inspired me to start looking for work in my preferred field :)
Pepper
Updated
Yiting’s Answer
DEI Research Analyst:
Many media organizations, studios, or research institutions look for individuals who can analyze data and trends related to diversity in media. Your skills in qualitative research or data analysis will be crucial in these roles. Research analysts often focus on assessing representation in films, TV shows, advertisements, and other media forms.
Many media organizations, studios, or research institutions look for individuals who can analyze data and trends related to diversity in media. Your skills in qualitative research or data analysis will be crucial in these roles. Research analysts often focus on assessing representation in films, TV shows, advertisements, and other media forms.
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer! I really appreciate all your help!
Pepper