What is a Focus Group?

Focus groups are small, moderated discussions designed to gather honest opinions, impressions, and ideas from real people. Typically made up of 6–10 participants, these sessions are used by companies, researchers, and organizations to gain deep insights into public perception, preferences, and behavior. What makes focus groups unique is that they go beyond the numbers—they uncover the why behind people’s reactions.

Why Focus Groups Exist—and Why You’re Needed

Before launching a product, rolling out a campaign, or revamping a brand, organizations need to know what their audience truly thinks. Surveys offer data—but focus groups offer something richer: human perspective.

That’s where you come in.

As a focus group participant, your opinions help decision-makers better understand what resonates, what doesn’t, and what’s missing. Whether it’s evaluating a new commercial, discussing a political message, or testing a product idea, your feedback plays a direct role in shaping real-world outcomes.

What to Expect During a Session

Focus groups are led by a trained moderator who guides the conversation. You might be shown a product, asked to respond to messaging, or invited to share your experiences related to a specific topic.

There are no right or wrong answers. Everyone’s opinion is valid—and disagreement is welcome. The goal is open, honest discussion. As the conversation unfolds, the moderator may ask follow-up questions to better understand your reasoning and emotional reactions.

Sessions typically last between 60 to 120 minutes and are either held in person or virtually.

How Participants Are Chosen

Every focus group has specific goals, which means each one looks for a certain type of participant. That’s why you may be asked to answer a few questions before being selected.

Here’s what the process usually looks like:

• Screening: You’ll complete a short questionnaire to determine if you’re a match.
• Selection & Scheduling: If selected, you’ll receive details about the date, time, and format of the session.
• Participation: You’ll take part in the discussion, either from a local facility or virtually.
• Compensation: After completing the session, you’ll receive a thank-you payment as compensation for your time.

Where Focus Groups Fit Into the Bigger Picture

Focus groups are often one piece of a broader research effort. Alongside surveys, interviews, or product testing, they offer an essential layer of qualitative insight. They help brands and organizations understand how people think—and more importantly, why they think that way.

While data tells the what, focus groups reveal the why. And that context can make all the difference in how something is received by the public.

Participating in a focus group is more than just answering questions—it’s about influencing the things you see, use, and experience every day. Your insights help shape better products, smarter campaigns, and more thoughtful ideas.

So if you’ve been invited to share your thoughts in a focus group, know this: your perspective is not only welcomed—it’s valued.