Imagine the power of a conversation that uncovers not only what people do but also what they think, how they feel, and why.
This is the heart of user research, where the true craft lies not in the set of words threaded as questions, but in the conversations driven by empathy and bridged through genuine connection.
The essence of impactful moderation in user research extends well beyond the surface of scripts and structured inquiries. It delves into the art of fostering an environment where users feel motivated to share their innermost thoughts and feelings. Here, every participant—from the everyday heroes keeping our spaces clean to the visionaries leading companies—carries a story ripe with insights waiting to be unveiled.
The Spectrum of Human Experience
User research is a mosaic of human experiences, each piece coloured by its unique shades of life, work, and aspiration. Recognising the breadth of this spectrum is crucial, requiring moderators to wear many hats, seamlessly shifting from empathetic listener to astute analyst, all while maintaining a connection that feels both genuine and respectful.
“Every user interaction session is unique; the ability to adapt and connect with participants is the key.”
Adaptability: The Core of Connection
The unpredictable nature of user research mirrors life itself, often bringing unforeseen twists.
A notable example is a session with a couple that unexpectedly veered off course due to a disagreement. By offering a brief pause, we allowed space for resolution, and the session could continue. This incident highlights that user research transcends structured questions and planned interactions. It's a testament to the unpredictable yet authentic moments that can unfold during these sessions. As a researcher, going with the flow of how people naturally interact and letting real moments happen not only respects the participants' experiences but also makes the insights more meaningful and genuine.
While writing this article, I recall another anecdote from one of our healthcare research studies in a rural area. Initially, it was designed as a one-on-one interaction, but the dynamics took an unexpected turn when neighbours curiously joined in. Suddenly, an in-depth interview transformed into a village-level focus group discussion (ever heard of this?).
Quick to adapt, we recognised the unique opportunity that presented itself. In response to the newfound enthusiasm, we swiftly organised the growing group into three smaller groups. Simultaneously, our team of researchers dispersed among them, initiating impromptu mini-group discussions. The shift allowed everyone in the expanded gathering to express their perspectives. This flexibility in the face of unexpected events underscores the importance of being adaptable, allowing us to uncover a wealth of insights.
The art of moderation is akin to navigating a river—while you may chart a course, the waters themselves demand respect and responsiveness.
This fluidity in approach can transform a standard session into an insightful journey, revealing the unexpected turns that human emotions and interactions often take.
Empathy as the guiding principle
When engaging with users, it's crucial to approach conversations with empathy to foster genuine connections. Users hail from diverse economic, cultural, and social backgrounds, requiring moderators to understand their unique perspectives, situations, experiences, and emotions. This understanding enables honest and authentic conversations, enhancing rapport and trust, essential for gathering stories rather than mere responses and uncovering unspoken needs.
During a recent session, while recounting her experiences, the participant became overwhelmed with emotions and broke into tears. Instead of rushing or halting the conversation, we shifted its tone, providing her with space to process her emotions without feeling judged or rushed. We diverted the discussion to generic topics, such as her hobbies and love for cooking, sharing anecdotes about her recent culinary experiments. After about 10 minutes, we gently guided the conversation back to the study's objectives, ensuring sensitivity to her emotional state throughout the interaction.
Embrace Spontaneity
Life's unpredictability is reflected in user research. Planned interviews may evolve, revealing discoveries and vulnerabilities, and offering a glimpse into what truly matters. Such moments should be approached with spontaneity, going beyond the script to explore previously unconsidered perspectives.
Cultural Harmony
Blending into the cultural fabric of a community, such as researchers adopting local attire, mannerisms, and greeting etiquette, can significantly enhance the depth of engagement and comfort of participants.
Drawing from our experiences, there's a notable anecdote from a research study conducted in a rural area that exemplifies the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability. In this particular context, we, the researchers, made a deliberate decision to wear simple salwar suits and chappals as a means to establish a deeper connection with the participants.
Another example from our International Research is when we were researching in China. We familiarized ourselves with everyday greetings and etiquette and learnt that when visiting the home of the research participant, it's best to leave the footwear outside the main door and never refuse the snack or beverage offered as it's considered impolite in their culture. This simple act helped break down barriers that may have existed if they perceived us as outsiders and eliminate any preconceived notions that might have labelled us as "Madams from the city."
Tailored Dialogue
Adjusting the tone, language, and style of communication to match that of the participants not only honours their individuality but also opens doors to deeper understanding.
For instance, in sessions involving profiles like security guards, drivers, and participants from rural areas, we employ simple, everyday language and a friendly tone to cultivate rapport. Conversely, when engaging with CMOs, doctors, and founders, a more formal and professional language and tone are adopted. This adaptive approach not only acknowledges their unique communication styles but also enhances the overall effectiveness of the interaction.
An insightful anecdote from one of our sessions serves as a testament to the importance of establishing genuine connections. After a session, a participant from a Tier 2 city shared,
"Aapse baat karke acha laga. Interview shuru hone se pehle hum soch rahe the ki vo log kya puchenge, hum kya bolenge, kaise bolenge. Lekin aapse baat karke laga hi nahi kisi ajnabi se baat kar rahe hai. hum aapse khul kar baat kar paye."
"Didi agle baar Lucknow aana toh ghar zaroor aana, ab toh hum aapki saheli hai."
Fostering Genuine Engagement
At its core, successful user research moderation is about creating a space where participants do not just share binary responses but engage in a dialogue that feels meaningful. When participants remark on the ease and comfort of a conversation, it signifies a bridge well-built, where insights flow freely, and understanding deepens.
The journey of a user research moderator is one of constant learning and genuine curiosity. It's about seeing the person behind the participant and the story behind the response. By embracing adaptability, fostering cultural sensitivity, and personalising communication, we do more than gather data; we connect worlds. This holistic approach doesn't just make for better research; it makes for a richer understanding of the diverse tapestry of human experience.
Reflections from the UCC Research team - Shipra Bhutada, Nabila Ahmed and Reena Sharma
Comments