subject: Explore Your Target Market With Online Forums [print this page] Forums are great resources for businesspeople that want to do focused market research. Forums are basically websites where users with similar interests can ask questions, answer questions and host discussions. Many forums revolve around specific topics which makes it easy for businesspeople to find valuable information. There are literally forums for every niche and interest in the world. By participating in forums, business owners can gather information about their target market, collect honest product reviews, interact with customers in a positive and non-sales oriented environment, and build a trustworthy reputation as an expert in their field.
Forums are great places to conduct observational research; especially if you find questions that were asked and answered a few years ago that are relevant to your business. However, if you are able to find a forum where your target market is actively participating in discussions, you should take the opportunity to get involved. Offer your expertise if someone has a question, and after you've participated for a month or two, start asking questions that can help your business. Ask about products, issues, and what's missing in the current market.
It's important that you position yourself as an interested and sincere forum contributor rather than a businessperson looking to move products. It's ok to mention that you're in the business, but never use forums as a place to sell. At most, you can mention your business or include a link, but once you start pitching products without offering useful and real information, the people in the forum will stop taking you seriously.
A good way to start looking for relevant forums is simply to conduct a search for a specific question related to your niche. "Yahoo answers" is a popular place for people to ask questions that frequently link to more focused forums. Pay attention to post dates on all of the questions and responses to determine which forums will best reward your participation.
If you can find an active forum that frequently discusses topics related to your field of business, participate and nurture your relationships within the forum. Follow the forum's rules and etiquette and treat each contributor with respect. The people you find on these forums can provide you with great insider information and might even become your customers if you play it right.
Courtney Buell is a writer at Professional Marketing International. Prior to joining PMI, Courtney obtained a bachelors degree in Humanities and wrote for various print and online publications in Salt Lake City. Professional Marketing International helps people achieve their dreams.
