Are you considering starting your own business? There are many ways to approach the beginning of this journey, but a surprising number of people who decide to do so every year set off from the starting line with very little information. This contributes to the relatively high rate of failure for new businesses.
Instead of approaching your venture with the mind of a businessman, try thinking like a branding agent. Do you know who your target audience is? How to market to them? Take a look at some top tips offered to UCF business students from the Celebrity Branding Agency.
Know Your Room, and Work It
At the beginning of your business career, you may be tempted to project yourself as an expert. Don’t. Be upfront about your enthusiasm to learn, and be willing to take critique as well as encouragement. Reach out to others for assistance as needed, and build relationships and connections that will continue to assist you as you climb the ladder.
Go After the Customer You Want
If you’re trying to market your goods or services in an area where people are constantly broke, you’re not going to make enough sales to support yourself. Move on. Market to consumers with higher average incomes, more education, and a better understanding of the products you’re selling. Move to where the money is to grab your piece of the pie.
You Can’t Force Relationships with Customers and Clients
Although going after your dream demographic is important, remember also that you cannot create relationships where they don’t exist. Build trust in your brand naturally, through promotion, customer service and quality. Don’t try to force friendships with clients, customers or contacts if you’re just not clicking.
Make Use of Your Medium, and Market to Your Target Audience
If you want to market with social media, make sure your target audience uses the platform you’re considering. Grandmothers aren’t likely to be using snapchat, and many millennials don’t respond well to email campaigns. Target your efforts to the preferences of your customer, and you will soon become one of those preferences!
