Navigating the tumultuous waters of business decisions is like predicting the weather: one moment, it’s clear skies, and the next, you’re in the eye of a market hurricane. How do you know where to steer your ship before buying into your next big venture? The compass you need is a set of finely tuned questions that guide you in the right direction.
So, you’re about to set sail on a market position analysis journey – or maybe you’re just thinking about it. Either way, you’ve got decisions on the horizon. These 35 questions are your map and compass. Each one is a crucial checkpoint to ensure you’re setting sail to the right place at the right time, and choosing the right winds to get you there.
*advertisement*
*advertisement*
*advertisement*
*advertisement*
Introduction
Just like flipping through a magazine or scrolling through a website, a listicle is an interactive experience. As we dive into this list of 35 must-ask questions, remember that you’re not alone in this adventure. These questions are designed to be your co-pilots, your guide through the marketplace. They’re simple yet powerful, and they’ll lead you to make wiser, more informed business decisions. Ready to embark on this learning journey? Let’s weigh anchor.
The Importance of Pre-Purchase Market Position Analysis
Imagine you’re at a bustling street market. Vendors clamor for your attention, each promising you the world. Now, translate that to the digital or physical marketplace. The noise and the stakes are much, much higher. You can’t afford to be swayed by pretty packaging or persuasive glances alone. That’s where market position analysis comes in, honing your vision to see through the fog of commerce.
Before you make the leap, you’ve got to know where you stand and what you’re jumping into. These 35 questions will help you dissect, analyze, and understand your market position – a fundamental step in ensuring you don’t just survive, but thrive in the competitive world of business.
35 Market Position Analysis Pre-Purchase Questions
Here are the 35 questions you should be asking. Analyzing your market position is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor, so be sure to tailor these questions to reflect the unique qualities of your business and industry.
1. Do I Understand My Niche Inside and Out?
It’s not enough to know the broad strokes of your industry. You need to be an expert in the nuances of your niche. What’s trending? What’s on the way out? And most importantly, why?
2. Who Are My Primary Competitors?
List your top three competitors and dig into their strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This is your first touchpoint in understanding where you fit in the market landscape.
3. How Do My Competitors Market Themselves?
Take a deep dive into their marketing strategies. What channels do they use? What’s their messaging, and how’s it resonating with the audience?
4. Are There Any Gaps in My Competitors’ Offerings?
Where are they falling short? Identifying these gaps is an opportunity for you to step in and set up shop.
5. What Is My Unique Selling Proposition (USP)?
Distinctiveness is your superpower. What makes you different and why would a consumer choose you over the competition?
6. Is My USP Compelling and Clear to My Target Audience?
Your USP only works if your audience gets it. Is your message crystal clear or foggy with corporate jargon?
*advertisement*
Tired & Overwhelmed With Administrative Tasks?
Hire A Top 1% Virtual Assistant From Stealth Agents!
Sign Up Below & Hire A Top 1% Virtual Assistant
Rated 4.7 Stars Serving Over 2,000+ Customers.
Hire Top 1% Virtual Assistants For $10-$15 Per Hour
Ask About Our 14 Day Trial!
*advertisement*
7. Am I Solving a Real Problem for My Customers?
Products or services that don’t solve a problem rarely sell. Is there a genuine need for what you’re offering?
8. Is There a Demand in the Market for My Product/Service?
Demand is the engine of sales. How strong is the pull for your product or service?
9. Have I Tested My Product/Service in Focus Groups or with Trusted Consumers?
Nothing beats real feedback. Focus groups can provide invaluable insights before you hit the market.
10. What’s My Pricing Strategy?
Is your product going to be a high-end luxury item or a budget option? Your pricing is a major market indicator.
11. How Does My Pricing Compare to Competitors?
Are you undercutting the competition, matching them, or are you positioned at a premium? Your answer can reveal your market position.
12. Is My Business Sustainable in the Current Market Environment?
Your market strategy isn’t just about sales – it’s about what happens after. Are you set for long-term success?
13. What Is the Potential for Growth in My Market Segment?
Can you scale upward, or are you going to cap out quickly? Assess your segment’s potential for growth.
14. How Is Market Saturation Impacting My Business?
Are there too many players? Or is the market all but empty for your entry?
15. What Are the Key Market Trends I Need to Be Aware Of?
Trends aren’t just about fashion; they drive consumer behavior. Stay ahead of the curve or risk being left behind.
16. What Are the Legal and Regulatory Challenges in My Market?
Ignorance of the law is no excuse, they say. Make sure you’re fully aware of the legal landscape you’re entering.
17. How Do Economic Conditions Affect My Market?
From inflation to recession, what impacts your market? And how will you weather these conditions?
18. What Are the Market Entry Barriers?
Are there significant hurdles to entering your chosen market? Think legal, financial, or tactical challenges.
19. What Is the Technological Landscape in My Market?
Technology shapes markets and consumer expectations. Are you in line with or lagging behind the latest tech?
20. How Does Market Research Support My Business Decisions?
Is your market research robust and up-to-date? The depth of your research can make or break your decision-making process.
21. What Tools and Resources Do I Need for Market Position Analysis?
From SWOT analysis to Porter’s Five Forces, do you have the right tools in your arsenal?
22. What Is My Distribution Plan?
You can have the greatest product, but if you can’t distribute it, it’s worthless. What’s your plan to get it to the people?
23. How Does My Advertising Affect Brand Awareness?
Your ad dollars should move the needle on brand awareness. How are you measuring this?
24. What Is My Digital Marketing Strategy?
Today, digital marketing is non-negotiable. How are you using it to capture your market?
25. How Are Sales Channels Evolving?
From e-commerce to m-commerce, sales channels are constantly shifting. Are you moving with them?
26. How Strong Is My Sales Team?
Your sales team is the frontline for market penetration. Are they equipped and motivated to sell your product?
*advertisement*
Create An Account & Hire Our Virtual Assistants
*advertisement*
27. How Does Customer Service Impact Market Retention?
A satisfied customer is your best marketer. How’s your customer service strategy shaping their experience?
28. What Is the Cultural Context of the Market I’m Targeting?
Cultural differences can be make or break. How does your offering fit within the local culture?
29. What Are My Short-Term and Long-Term Market Goals?
Set clear milestones and goals. You can’t hit what you can’t see.
30. How Do Global and Local Market Factors Interplay?
The global market connects us all, but local factors matter too. How does your product fit in that interplay?
31. How Do I Plan to Measure Market Performance?
You can’t improve what you can’t measure. What KPIs will tell you how you’re doing in the market?
32. Who Will Be Part of My Market Analysis Team?
No one climbs Everest alone. Who’s in your team, and what roles do they play?
33. What Are My Market Position Fundamentals – According to Customers?
Customers aren’t just the target – they’re the judges. What are they saying about you?
34. How Segmented Is My Target Market?
Not all customers are created equal. How do you divide yours?
35. What Is the Competitive Landscape Right Now, and What Will It Be Tomorrow?
The market you see today might not be the market you face tomorrow. Flexibility and anticipation are key.
Conclusion
You’ve just navigated through a comprehensive set of market position analysis questions. This is no mere checklist; it’s an essential roadmap for creating a successful business future. As the landscape of commerce evolves, so too should your approach to market position analysis. Continuously asking these questions will ensure your business stays relevant, competitive, and profitably positioned in the hearts and minds of consumers.
Remember, market position analysis isn’t a one-time gig. It’s a continuous voyage of learning and adapting. Equip yourself with information, listen to market whispers, and be ready to course correct when needed. The right questions will always light the way.
*advertisement*
Hire The Industry's Best Virtual Assistants Today!
Create An Account & Hire Our Virtual Assistants For Your Business
*advertisement*
