Target Markets and Fish

I have been thinking about how to describe the importance of finding your target market so that you can speak directly to the group who is already interested in what you have to say.

In my pondering, the phrase "as easy as shooting fish in a barrel" came to mind. I must admit I did not research that phrase to find its origin. I am a literal / visual thinker and this is where I went.

If you had a 50 gallon wooden barrel full of fish and water what would happen if you shot your gun into the water? You might hit a few fish and have enough for dinner. Or you might not hit anything but the barrel, putting a hole in the container. Either way, you are bound to get fish!

Imagine now that your "barrel" is full of your target market customers. Your "gun" is your offer to sell your goods or services. One shot into that barrel might yield you a few customers that buy your product. Repeated shots will eventually yield a whole barrel load of customers.

The point is this. You need to identify which fish fit in your barrel! Then you can begin to round them up and put them in your barrel. This is accomplished by reaching out to them via email, blogs, social networks, public speaking, open houses, and free teleclass offers. Your 'fish' will jump into your barrell if they feel that you have a solution to their pain or problems.
The more fish you have, the more likely one of those fish will buy from you. It's a matter of numbers. Shoot your gun (message) into your barrel (target market) repeatedly and they will buy.

Another saying comes to mind here: The ball is in your court. It's your 'shot'.
If you would like some help with that shot, contact me. It's always more fun to go fishing with a friend!