What are some ways to reach my target customer?

Customer bases respond to different marketing methods. What’s key is understanding who your targeted customer is, then you can ask where and how you can reach them. So how do you identify and reach a target customer?

Here is a non-exhaustive marketing list:

• Networking events
• Volunteering
• Social media
• Your business website
• Cold calling by phone
• Cold calling by foot
• Email marketing
• Print media advertising
• Online news
• Online marketing
• Business directories
• Direct mail
• Door-to-door delivery – businesses and homes
• Opt-in newsletters
• Training/classes for your customer base
• Partnering with small product makers
• (I saved the best for last) Customer referrals

Here’s an example of how to utilize some of these methods for your awards shop. Say I want to sell expensive custom awards to mid-size and large corporations. Do I mail a “who it may concern” letter to company? It will likely get tossed. The best chance I have to reach the buyer is to call the corporation and ask the operator to put me in touch with whomever manages awards. Match the product with the buyer, decision maker, or at least the influencer for an effective mailing campaign to them later. 

   —Eagle’s Mark