Sociologists can help companies plan for the future, deal with organizational restructuring and downsizing, and conduct market research for advertisers and manufacturers. Increasingly, sociologists are involved in the evaluation of social and welfare programs. Sociologists often are confused with social workers, and in fact they do contribute to one another's discipline. While most sociologists conduct research on organizations, groups, and individuals, clinical sociologists, like social workers, may directly help people who are unable to cope with their circumstances. Training in quantitative research methods is important for sociologists.
Most sociologists read, conduct research, and write reports, articles, and books.
Sociologists working in government organizations, private firms, and nonprofit agencies generally have structured work schedules, and many experience the pressures of deadlines, tight schedules, heavy workloads, and overtime. They devote their time to research and the application of sociological knowledge and skills to solve organizational, community, and family problems. They often work as an integral part of a team. Some sociologists create their own private consulting firms and may work evenings or weekends to accommodate clients or complete a project. Travel may be required to collect data for research projects or to attend professional conferences.