15 Research Manager Skills for Your Career and Resume

Research managers are responsible for planning, conducting and overseeing research projects. They work in a variety of industries, including academia, government and private businesses. Research managers typically have a background in research and possess a variety of skills that enable them to effectively manage research projects. If you’re interested in becoming a research manager, it’s helpful to understand the skills that are necessary for this position.

Report Writing

As a research manager, you may be required to write reports on the results of your team’s work. This can include writing executive summaries for upper management and full reports that explain the process by which you arrived at your conclusions. Strong report writing skills can help you communicate complex information in an easy-to-understand format.

Leadership

Leadership skills are the abilities you have to motivate and guide your team. Research managers often use their leadership skills to help them navigate challenges, encourage collaboration and ensure that projects stay on track. Strong leadership can also be beneficial for building trust with your team members and ensuring that everyone is comfortable in their roles.

Proposal Writing

Research managers often need to write proposals for funding, so it’s important that they have strong writing skills. A research manager might also be responsible for creating and managing budgets for their projects, which requires them to have excellent proposal-writing abilities. Proposal-writing skills are also necessary when a research manager is applying for jobs or interviewing with potential employees.

STATA

Research managers need to have knowledge of statistical analysis software like STATA. This is because they often oversee teams of data analysts who use this software to analyze and interpret data for their organization’s decision-makers. Having a basic understanding of the program can help research managers provide guidance to their team members when needed.

Problem Solving

Problem solving is the ability to identify and resolve issues. Research managers often use problem-solving skills when working with teams, clients or suppliers. For example, if a team member has an emergency that prevents them from completing their work, a research manager may need to find a solution quickly so the project can continue moving forward. This might involve finding another employee who can fill in for the absent colleague or negotiating with the colleague’s supervisor to allow the employee time off.

Organization

Organization is the ability to keep track of multiple tasks and responsibilities. Research managers often have many projects at once, so it’s important for them to be organized. This ensures they can prioritize their work effectively and meet deadlines. It also helps them delegate tasks to team members and ensure everyone has all the information they need to do their job well.

Client Relations

Client relations is the ability to communicate with clients and customers in a way that makes them feel valued. Research managers often work directly with clients, so this skill can be important for success in the role. You might use client relations skills when meeting with clients to discuss research goals or results, for example.

Communication

Communication is the ability to convey information in a way that others can understand. Research managers must be able to communicate with their teams, clients and other stakeholders about research projects. This means being able to explain technical concepts in layman’s terms and clearly relay project status updates. Strong communication skills are also important for collaborating with team members on research tasks.

Contract Negotiation

Research managers often negotiate contracts with clients and other business partners. They may also negotiate salaries for research staff, as well as the cost of materials or equipment needed to complete projects. Negotiation skills can help you reach agreements that satisfy all parties involved. You can practice contract negotiation by volunteering to represent your company in negotiations with suppliers or vendors.

Data Analysis

Data analysis is the process of examining data to find trends and patterns. Research managers often use data analysis to evaluate their research projects, determine if they need to make changes or take action based on the results. Data analysis also involves evaluating the quality of your data and ensuring it’s accurate and reliable.

SPSS

SPSS is a software program that research managers use to analyze data. It’s important for these professionals to have knowledge of SPSS so they can interpret the results of their team’s work and make informed decisions about future projects. Research managers also use SPSS when creating reports, which requires them to be familiar with how to use this software.

Project Management

Project management skills are necessary for research managers to ensure that their projects meet deadlines, stay within budget and produce quality results. This involves assigning tasks to team members, monitoring the status of each task and providing guidance when needed. It also requires managing resources like equipment, supplies and office space effectively so that your team can work efficiently.

Analytical Skills

Research managers need to be able to analyze data and information they receive from their team members. They also use analytical skills when making decisions about the research projects they accept, how much time and money to spend on each project and what methods to use for gathering data.

For example, a research manager might decide whether to continue with a particular study based on the results of an initial pilot test. Analytical skills are also important when it comes to evaluating the success of completed studies.

Budgeting

Research managers need to be able to create and manage budgets for their projects. This requires an understanding of the costs associated with research, as well as how much funding is needed to complete a project. It also requires being able to forecast expenses and income over time so that you can plan ahead for any financial needs your company may have.

Presentation Skills

Presentation skills are the ability to communicate information in a clear and concise manner. Research managers often present their research findings to clients, colleagues or other stakeholders. Having strong presentation skills can help you explain complex topics in an easy-to-understand way that keeps your audience engaged. You may also need to give presentations about company policies, procedures or other topics where effective communication is important.

How Can I Learn These Research Manager Skills?

There are a few ways that you can learn the skills necessary to be a research manager. Many of these skills can be learned through on-the-job training, or by taking courses offered by professional organizations. If you are interested in pursuing a career in research management, it is also beneficial to obtain a degree in a field related to research, such as sociology, psychology, or market research. Additionally, it is helpful to have experience working in a research setting, as this will give you a better understanding of the research process and the various roles that are involved.