As you are working through The Platform Builder® Marketing Planner, it is critical that you take the time to identify your target audience, ideal client, or avatar. Gaining a clear understanding of who your target audience is and what they need, can help ensure that your marketing efforts reach them.
In conjunction to what’s in The Platform Builder® Marketing Planner, here are some steps you can take to identify your target audience:
Define your niche: Start by identifying your business niche. This is the specific area in which you offer products or services. Knowing your niche will help you identify your target audience.
For example, within the women’s shoe market are many different segments or niches. Shoes for the wedding industry would be a niche market, as would shoes for plus-sized women or shoes for nurses.
Analyze your competition: Notice I did not say copy your competition but rather study your competition to learn more about their target audience. Look at who they are marketing to, what products or services they offer, and how they reach their customers.
Create a buyer avatar: These are fictional characters, with a NAME such as Davonne, that represent your ideal customers. You can use this avatar to guide your marketing messages and sales strategies. When you are creating your social media content or email content, you can act like you are talking directly to Davonne (or whatever name you select) and create content just for her or him!
Remember as a business owner, your unique experiences and perspectives can offer valuable insights into your target audience. Use this to your advantage and don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to marketing and sales strategies.
This gets you started with identifying your target audience!
