Information is King

-The Most Valuable Commodity I Know of is Information-

-Gordon Gekko

Ask your customers/clients questions; Dig deep into the seams of how they think and what they like.  A wise proverb once said "You have not, because you ask not." This explains the problem most entrepreneurs possess.

Asking the questions that matter...

Quite often we miss the point of what the customer is actually looking to gain from our product or service.  We catapult passed the things that make our customers tick.  We consistently assume we know what the customer/client wants or is looking for.  Most of us think amiss that its price, price, price. 

Price isn't always the issue, matter of fact your most desired customer isn't typically cost motivated.  Everyone is different, and everybody has varied reasons on why they patronize certain companies.  One person maybe service oriented, another could be quality driven, and another could be all about choices.  Never make the decision for your customer, let them choose if this certain product or service is for them.  This said, we don't know what is going through the minds of our customers because the techniques we use are not an exact science.  

There are many ways to gather information from a customer, all I ask is that you use something and just ask the questions!  A customer will tell you what is on their mind if you simply uncover their desires by asking probing questions.  Ask via survey (e.g. written or audible), utilize text services, or even blog.  People are eager to speak their minds and their favorite subjects are themselves.  Make sure your questioning is tailored to fit each particular customer where possible.  

Take A Sincere Concern With What Makes Your Client Click...

Information is king and as an entrepreneur we must conquer that kingdom.  Gaining knowledge of how the customer thinks will enable your intelligence gathered to further your business.  Knowing where your customer shops for groceries, clothing, or whatever is leverage.  Uncovering what your client eats, what they drink, what they do for fun, or even their hobbies can allow you to better market to and tie down your niche.  If asked who your client is these particulars should flow from your mouth smoothly.  

One cannot PROPERLY build a marketing plan or aggressively street market if they don't have a solid picture of who their client is.  Allowing a good number of your customers to verbalize their desires places power in your hands called information.  With information comes the ability to land venture capital or bank loans, build foot traffic or buzz, and/or alter your business practices.  Whatever need be, it will be revealed once you become authentically concerned with the thoughts and feelings of your clientele.

                                                                                       -Warrick Buffett

                                                                                        Promotions/Marketing/PR

                                                                                        Grass Roots Specialist
                                                                                        Cosmopolitan Media Group