Some sociologists are basically administrators. They utilise their expertise in areas as diverse as intergroup relations, family counselling, public opinion analysis, law enforcement, personnel administration, public relations, regional and community planning. Sociologists are also employed as consultants. Using their professional knowledge and research skills they advise on problems such as market research for advertisers and manufacturers, counselling ex-offenders and foster care for the mentally deranged. Increasingly, sociologists are involved in the evaluation of social and welfare programmes.
Sociologists are university teachers too.
Like other university faculty, they may conduct research, do consulting work or handle administrative duties in addition to teaching. The duties of sociologists mainly include extensive reading, research and report writing. Their structured work schedules, bring in its wake, the pressures of deadlines, tight programmes and heavy workloads. Their routines may be often punctuated by numerous telephone calls, request for information and meetings. In between, travel may be indicated to collect data for research projects or to attend professional conferences.