My second favorite forgotten law is that “our target audience is everyone who has X or cares about X.”  While it’s tempting to think that a large target audience will lead to high fundraising, sometimes a target can be so large that it is essentially undefined.  For example, all Americans, people affected by cancer or diabetes, running enthusiasts, and men aged 18-24 are not target audiences. On the other hand, Mom’s aged 25-54 who are impacted by lung cancer and living in the 10 largest metropolitan areas of the United States is a much easier target market to research and segment.

Great advice that is often ignored! I don’t remember where I picked it up, but I often use the statement, “Beware the sample of one” to remind co-workers (past and present) of this.

What is even scarier is when you realize after 30 years in the biz you ARE the target audience…..

It’s true - sometimes the most simple things are the easiest to overlook.

Thanks for keeping it fresh in my mind.

It’s easier said than done But thanks for this kind of reminder anyway…

I tend to think that way If the group that you are marketing for is large, its very hard to find the perfect way to market.

Yes, most of us forget this elementary thing. This things are the most important.