Other Partnership staff members and I often get asked to speak to local service organizations about what’s going on in Freeport and Stephenson County. We love these occasions to get out in the community, hear from great people, talk about positive progress, and learn from other perspectives.
Before one such opportunity last week, I was able to join the group for a meal and talk to several of the members before being called up to present. With the great conversation I had before speaking, I was able to talk more plainly about the work of the Partnership and how it most impacted the people who were specifically in that room. Knowing what they cared about, had questions about, and ideas about their general interest allowed me to connect with them on a greater level giving them the information they wanted.
Taking just a little more time to understand and know your audience can mean all the difference in how your message is received. This isn’t just important in marketing, but really any aspect of business. If you want your product or service to be well received by your target audience, it’s imperative to understand exactly what they want!
After you’ve created the best product of service for your customers, the way you reach those customers also matters. As I’m writing this letter to you, our business members, I write differently than when writing advertising copy with the goal of getting people to come out for Music on Chicago. Different audiences and settings require different tones. My kids speak differently to their grandparents than they do their friends – at least, I sure hope they do! Knowing your audience allows you to effectively communicate and achieve the greatest impact.
That is why the Partnership creates many opportunities for us to hear from you – our audience and our members! From networking events to niche committees, and even personal emails and phone conversations, the clarity of our purpose is driven by our interactions with our members. When you have questions, concerns, suggestions, or generally want to provide feedback, we are all ears and welcome your comments.
Also, the connections created between each of our members during these networking opportunities allows each of you to have a better understanding of your audience, as well.
We deal with information overload daily. Understanding who you are trying to reach and what matters the most to them can make your messages more succinct and your interactions most successful.
Nicole Haas, MIOP is the Brand Director for the Greater Freeport Partnership. She can be reached at nhaas@greaterfreeport.com or 815-801-3676.
