Hanging Out With My Market

 

I spent most of last week at the annual conference of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).

 

While I’m not a member yet, I had a ball! And, more importantly, my attendance provided a remarkable opportunity to hang out with members of one of my major markets — seniors.  As you may know, a lot of writing is geared toward men and women who are in their in their golden years.

 

I was able to attend sessions with these folks and could determine some of what worries them, what brings them joy, what interests them, and what makes them laugh.

 

I was also able to walk the exhibit floor and got a really clear idea of what companies captured their attention and which didn’t. For example, I learned that regardless of age, women love jewelry! And, more seriously, I learned that health care is on our seniors’ minds now more than ever.

 

I encourage you to do what you can to get up close and personal with your customers and the people you are trying to reach.  Nothing beats spending a few days with them to figure out how to position your products and services in a manner that will make them take notice.