Entry-level marketing position?

I have a BA in psychology and my work experience in the business world is next to nil (I've done mostly the customer service thing because my pay has been good). Now, however, I want to do more with my career and get into marketing. I'm very interested in market research. Is it possible to find a market research job with no marketing degree or related work experience? My plan is to work on a second degree when I get a job (either a MBA or second bachelors). Would this be possible or am I setting my sights to high? Also, is market research a promising field or should I consider something else?

First, great for you for doing what you want instead of sticking with the status quo.

Now the hard truth. Marketing is a hot field right now as the rampant increase in the tech sector and the divergence from traditional marketing drives all companies to find new ways to be competitive. This also means however that the competition for these positions is increasing at an exponentially growing rate. Most companies want or require a BA with either Communications or Marketing plus 2-5 years of experience just to even consider your resume. It's not that you couldn't do well in an interview, just that your chances of even getting it are extremely slim.

But all hope is not lost. The key to any job is always the same. It's not who you are or your skills that usually get you the interview at that job, it's who you know. My advice, network network network! Stop in to some of the places that are hiring and get your face in the door. Make that good impression that will make you stand out above the others. Join a local chamber of commerce and go to the meetings and get to know people there. And most of all, don't be afraid or too proud to ask people you know and that your parents know for help or a recommendation.

I can't stress enought though how competitive this field is right now. Maybe you'll luck out and be in that "right place at the right time." Just be sure to keep pursuing it if it's really what you want to do.

Finally, beware of scam companies. There are alot of them right now that advertise on Careerbuilder, Monster and the rest that are realy nothing more than a pyramid type solicitation scheme. And if you look into them, you'll notice that their adds are nearly identical and so are their web sites. Most of what they want you to do can get you arrested for solicitation in many cities and best of all, they don't tell you or deny that outright. The big buzzwords they use are entry level marketing, no experience needed, all degrees accepted, work with pro sports etc.

Good luck...