One of the secrets to successful marketing is to identify the people or organizations most likely to burn with enthusiasm for your product or expertise. I like to call them your "kindling," which is essential to starting a marketing wildfire. However, your efforts will be all in vain if they never identify you. Just because you differentiate the people who need your value the most, the trick is getting your value in front of them. 

You can't light a fire without gathering enough tinder first. Fortunately, the task of finding large groups of like-minded people is easier than ever before. Use the list of questions below, and you will find that it's easier to identify them than you probably think:

Online:

• What websites do they visit?
• What active forums hold regular discussions?
• What blogs do they read?
• What news sites to they frequent?
• What online book clubs are they members of?
• What groups do they join on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn?

Offline:

• What print magazines do they read?
• What television shows do they watch?
• What radio shows do they listen to?
• What religious groups or events do they participate in?
• What newsletters do they subscribe to?
• What hobbies do they enjoy?
• What professional or social organizations do they join?

Use these questions to identify your target audience, then take steps to get in front of these groups through providing free resources, advertising, writing articles, speaking, or media interviews. The most efficient marketing plan starts by connecting with the enthusiasm of other people most likely to appreciate your message. Get them excited and watch the sparks fly!