01 Jul The Faces Behind Fluent: Dana Markow
To celebrate Fluent Research’s 20th anniversary, we’re highlighting the people who have helped shape the organization along the way. This week, we’re featuring Dana Markow, Fluent’s Vice President, Research.
Dana wears many hats at Fluent, including leader of our quantitative, survey-based research and driver of business, innovation, and strategy development. Having conducted extensive research with children and teens, education products and services, and public affairs, Dana provides her clients with data-driven, human-centered strategic insights that help them address complex questions and support strategic decisions.
Read below to find out about what Dana’s typical day looks like, her favorite productivity hack, and the activities she enjoys outside the office.
1) What inspired you to join Fluent Research?
Nellie and I met around 10 years ago and I was really impressed with the work that she was doing. I was working as an independent consultant at the time and a project came my way that I thought would be a great opportunity for us to partner on. That project was a success, which led to a few more projects. So when the offer came to join Fluent on a full-time basis, I was thrilled to accept.
2) What’s your role at Fluent, and what does a typical day look like for you?
I’m Vice President, Research and lead a team focused primarily on quantitative, survey-based research. I also have broader responsibilities for overall research strategy and innovation and business development. A typical day for me involves speaking with existing and potential clients, preparing a proposal for a new project, overseeing the various research projects managed by my team, and digging into the data to inform insights and recommendations for a client.
3) How has Fluent evolved since you joined?
It’s been a period of exciting growth. Since I’ve joined, the Fluent team has increased from fewer than five employees to more than 20 incredibly talented individuals.
4) What’s your favorite part of working at Fluent?
I love the wide variety of topics and populations that we get to investigate. I have the opportunity to learn from my clients and colleagues, as well as deepen and expand my areas of expertise.
5) What’s a book, movie, or podcast you’d recommend to everyone?
Bel Canto by Ann Patchett
6) What’s your go-to productivity hack?
Does taking a walk to clear my head count as a productivity hack?
7) What does Fluent’s 20th Anniversary mean to you?
It’s an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on our accomplishments and devote attention to what we want to achieve in the next 20 years.
8) What’s your favorite way to unwind after a busy day?
Doing the puzzles on The New York Times Games app. Wordle, Sudoku, Pips, Spelling Bee, the crosswords–I’m obsessed with them all!
9) If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
The list is long, as I haven’t traveled nearly as much as I would have liked, but Italy is at the top. The “why” is probably obvious: history, art, the coastal landscapes, and of course, the food (pasta and gelato?!).
10) What’s your favorite snack or drink to have while working?
Almonds (raw, unsalted)
11) What’s a hobby or activity you’re passionate about outside of work?
I really enjoy cooking and baking. I love the entire process–from choosing the recipes, shopping for special ingredients, preparing the food and sharing it with others. The only part I’m less enthused about is washing the pots & pans, but that’s a small price to pay.