What is a Focus Group?

A focus group consists of a small assembly of individuals invited to share their opinions on various subjects. These sessions can occur either in person or online and are primarily utilized to gauge public sentiment regarding specific brands, products, or political issues. Think of paid focus groups as in-depth surveys. Participants often receive refreshments and can walk away with extra cash—typically between $50 and $150—just for sharing their thoughts!

Businesses increasingly rely on paid focus groups to gain insights into market trends and customer preferences, both locally and globally.

Examples of Focus Groups

Consider a focus group conducted before the launch of a new product. This allows the organization to assess public reaction to various aspects of the product, including its marketing strategy. Focus groups can be categorized into two types:

1. In-Person
   • If you opt for a local in-person focus group, attendance is required at the designated location. These sessions usually involve group discussions facilitated by a moderator who takes notes and guides the conversation. Participants may need to attend multiple sessions, with compensation provided for each visit.
2. Online
   • Online focus groups mirror in-person sessions but are conducted via chat or video on your devices. You will receive a link to join the discussion, which may utilize specific software that you need to download beforehand.

Top Paid Online Focus Groups

Many platforms offer opportunities to participate in paid focus groups online, and registration is typically free. To maximize your chances of qualifying for a focus group and earning money, sign up for as many as possible.

1. Survey Junkie
   • Primarily focused on surveys, Survey Junkie also offers occasional online and in-person focus groups, paying up to $150 per session. Participants usually need to answer a few pre-qualification questions.
2. Respondent
   • Known for its diverse and lucrative focus group opportunities, Respondent can pay up to $250 for a one-hour session. Simply create an account and fill out your profile to access available focus groups worldwide.
3. Recruit And Field
   • With a high Facebook rating, Recruit and Field conducts nationwide studies and focuses on diverse participant backgrounds. Compensation ranges from $100 to $275, and payments are made via PayPal or gift cards.
4. American Consumer Opinion
   • This extensive survey platform allows users to earn through surveys and longer research studies, with payments reaching up to $50. Points can be redeemed once you accumulate $10.
5. User Interviews
   • A straightforward registration process allows you to be matched with offers based on your profile. Earnings start at around $75 for half-hour sessions, varying based on the complexity of the questions.
6. PingPong
   • Despite being relatively new, PingPong connects participants with major clients like Nestle and Dropbox, offering up to €100 per hour for their focus group sessions.
7. Probe Market Research
   • This highly rated firm compensates participants between $50 and $400 for focus groups, which can be conducted over the phone or online.
8. Plaza Research
   • With locations across the U.S., Plaza Research specializes in in-person focus groups, offering participants between $50 and $200 per session.