basic bookkeeping
Question
Do you know where I can learn basic market analysis...?
I'm thinking of starting a business and want to determine if there's a market in my area for what I am offering - secretarial, office space and bookkeeping services for small business owners and independent contractor-types. But I don't know enough about marketing to even begin, and I understand that my analysis is one of the most important things I'm going to do. Do you know where I can turn to read up on what I should do? Hardcover book or online site is good. Thanks!
3 years ago - 3 answers
Best Answer
Chosen by Asker
Marketing is extremely fun. That is why i am majoring in it. Anyways, develop a marketing plan to help you go through the steps..i'll give you a brief outline as to what you should include: Executive summary=briefly explain your backround, reputation, etc. (should be half a page) Current Market Situation= dicuss overall market, your target market, and current situation within the industry you are trying to enter. (1-3 pages) Market Description= Why do you want to enter? Explain the market and how you will distinguish yourself from your competitors (1-2 pages) Product Review= Simply discuss in detail what you offer (in this case, your service). Also, study what the competition is like around you. (1 page) Competitive Review= Here is where you focus strictly on your competition. Pick 3 companies and study there whereabouts. (should be 3-4 pages long) SWOT analysis= dicuss your strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats. List at least 3-4 points for each. Many people take this area for granted. (1-2 pages) Objectives and issues= Discuss your objectives and how you will move on the the next step. After 2 or 3 objectives, discuss reasonable issues that may arise on the way (2-3 pages) Marketing mix= My god this is the most important thing by far!!! Discuss your position (develop a positioning statement) as to how you are going to be viewed in the consumers mind. After that comes product strategy. Here, you want to develop a value added approach. Simply put, what are you going to offer that other companys wont? The next thing you will want to do is to develop a Pricing strategy. Understand the concept of supply and demand as well as inflation so you can gain a better understanding of the market. Finally, promotion strategy. When you promote your service, you need your promotion to tell a story. For example, when you see the Mcdonalds logo, you may know what they sell, at what prices, the environmental setting, etc. You already know how they are like without even going in. Hope this helps!! good luck
by AC
3 years ago
Asker's Rating: 
Other Answers
www.morningstar.com has some free online courses that will get you started.
by vg55 v- 3 years ago
You need to know preparing a marketing plan There are lots of source on internet for learning marketing plan Try these links www ... (samples) tenonline ... (how to)
by wonderkid- 3 years ago