I have used something like this document since I started copywriting 20 years ago. It will help you narrow define a target market. I made this one for websites but it really applies to any kind of communication. It is the first step to creating any effective piece of communication. If you have a client, this will help you know what to ask them to provide. Oftentimes, I get a generic answer to the question, "Who is your target market?" And when I do, I shoot them something like this. If I'm going to write effective communication, I need to know WHO I'm talking to and I need detail. What they don't provide I hunt for. Define your Target Market Document.
Hi - Thanks for that -- very helpful. A good example of how professional writers may understand more about those for whom they write. You website is nicely done too. Do you use WordPress for your blog there? I also noted that you have been in the biz since you were 10 -- guess there was no WordPress back then. As for me, I remember when manual typewriters were "high technology" for writers. - Scott
I think that all new writers should pick it up. Your form is probably going to give most of them the info they need to write. And the more they use it, the more they'll start to figure out other things they need to be looking at and asking. Many I've seen in certain forums think targeting is about saying "People who love iPods" and going home. And don't mention the P-word (positioning), you'll hear crickets. Typewriters, LOL. That reminds me of the movie (and good book) "All the President's Men." You have to respect those old-school journalists who could use a typewriter and other primitive tools while meeting deadlines and producing wonderful work.