Finding Your "Niche"

When you are trying to establish your business identity and brand yourself, you will need to determine what your "niche" or "target" market is going to be. This might sound easy, but in actuality, it takes some time and effort on your part to be successful.

Let's begin with a definition:
What is a niche market? A niche - or target - market is composed of individuals and businesses that have similar interests and needs.

How do I find my niche market?

• This should be the FIRST step when creating your business and marketing plan.
• Start with something you are passionate and knowledgeable about.
• Determine the demand and need for the product/service you are offering...is it broad or targeted?
• Find something that makes you stand apart - what is it that makes you the best of the best in your business? This is your USP (Unique Selling Proposition).
• Accent the positive characteristics of whatever your product or service is - what makes it the best and position yourself to be the expert in that field.
• RESEARCH! Talk to people, ask them targeted questions like: Are you interested in my product/service? If so, why? What are the best points about it? What would make you keep coming back? Make sure you talk to outside sources, neutral sources and other people in your same field.