Boost Your Marketing Results with Market Research!

I spoke with Linda Rink of Rink Consulting about Market Research. Here’s some tips on where to go for the best info:
Why do I need market research? To create a business plan, apply for a loan or grant. It can also save money, cover your butt, make sure you know your product, service or demographic. Doing research can save you thousands (or hundreds of thousands!) of dollars on a marketing campaign to make sure that you’re not going in the wrong direction with a campaign. Money spent on research may be the best money you spend in your marketing campaign. It confirms your plan.
What kind of research is available? There’s secondary research, which is already published research – which someone else has created – and paid for. There’s primary research – which is custom research that you pay for, specifically for your own use (ie:  focus groups, surveys or interviews).
Can I use Google as a research tool? Yes, but the data you find might be outdated. According to Linda Rink, less than 15% of the data she uses for clients comes from online research.
Best Research Tip. What’s the cheapest and most accurate way to get market research? Become friends with the reference librarian at your local library. They can save you time, money and get you information that’s up-to-date.
To hear this interview in its entirety, go to: Marketing Chat with Nancy Sipera, 10/16/12.
Source: Linda Rink, Rink Consulting