When selecting a market research company, be wary of those that lack transparency in their methodologies or pricing. If a company is reluctant to provide detailed explanations of their research processes or avoids discussing costs openly, it could be a sign of potential issues down the line. Another red flag is a lack of industry-specific expertise, especially if they claim to serve all sectors without specialization. This can indicate a superficial understanding of your particular market. Additionally, if a company has a high number of unresolved complaints or consistently negative reviews without sufficient positive feedback, it may be best to look elsewhere. Finally, pay attention to how responsive and communicative the company is during the consultation phase; poor communication early on can be indicative of future challenges in collaboration.