We had the good fortune of connecting with Audris Campbell and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Audris, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I started my own business because I wanted to create a place where I could use my research gifts to the highest potential. I’ve worked in many companies over the years, but I always felt stifled – like there was a ceiling I could never break through. In developing my own business, there are no limits to what I can achieve and that’s a feeling that I love and wouldn’t trade for anything.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I own The Research Gurus. Our mission is to be the trusted research advisor to business and nonprofit leaders. Each day, we work with individuals who want to build better organizations, better products, and better communities. We use our expertise in data collection, analysis, and insights to help them on their path. What sets us apart from others is that we offer comprehensive research solutions. If an organization doesn’t know where to start, we help them with strategy. If they have a strategy, but lack time to get it done, we help with execution. If they want to improve their skills, we help with training. If they simply need advice, we offer consulting. Additionally, we conduct both quantitative and qualitative research. Quantitative research is when you collect and analyze numerical data, such as surveys and big data. Qualitative research is when you collect and analyze non-numerical data, such as interviews and focus groups.
I am excited about our new and complimentary ask me anything (AMA) calls. Sometimes leaders aren’t sure where to start, have questions they’d love to ask before getting started, or want to know more about research, this is their opportunity to ask me anything. Simply go to calendly.com/theresearchgurus to meet with me.
I honestly got to where I am by continuing to follow things that interest me. When I was in graduate school, I took a research methods class and fell in love with applied research, or research used to solve practical problems. From there, I kept taking more classes and took on internships that led me to work for major research companies and eventually start my own business.
Along the way, I’ve learned that you just have to go for it. Try that new thing. Take a risk. Quit your job (lol). You just have to believe in you and the vision that God has given you. Trust yourself.
I want the world to know that I truly love conducting research that makes a difference in the lives of people and organizations. I believe it’s a part of my calling and I’m continuing on with the work.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would definitely take them to The National Center for Civil and Human Rights. It’s a place full of rich history and inspiration and tells the African American story with so much dignity and poise. I enjoy walking through the exhibits to be reminded about how far we’ve come and how far we have to go as a people.
I would also take them for a nice stroll through Centennial Olympic Park. It’s a great place to relax with family and enjoy the heart of Atlanta. If they have kids with them, I’d have them bring a change of clothes so they can run through the Fountain of Rings.
Lastly, I’d take them to Paschals, which is a historical restaurant in Atlanta. Known to be a meeting place during the civil rights movement, it continues to display black excellence from the moment you walk in the door and yeah the food is amazing too! Anyone say mac & cheese, collard greens, or catfish ?!?
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I dedicate this shoutout to my mother. She always believed in me from day one. I remember her saying that she prayed that God would take care of all my education and I literally received three degrees on full-paid scholarships. I have never paid one cent for my education. I thank God for my mom encouraging me when things didn’t always go the way I thought they should and letting me know that God had a bigger and better plan for my life. Thank you, Mom.
Website: https://theresearchgurus.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/audriscampbell/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/audriscampbell/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AudrisCampbell
Image Credits
Kelley Raye