Focus groups are used by many businesses to test new products, advertising campaigns, business names, product packaging, business ideas – just about anything a business might be considering. While usually a big business approach, focus groups can work in small businesses like in your newsagency.
For clarification on what a focus group is and how it works, take a look at the Wikipedia page: Focus Group.
My newsagency management tip today is to use a focus group to harvest feedback and thoughts about management decisions you face in and about your newsagency business. You could convene a group of people not currently connected (this is important) with your business for advice and feedback on:
- A store image change.
- Product category changes.
- Product selection where you might be considering multiple options.
- Consideration of a new service.
- Community group engagement choices.
Sometimes asking the opinions of others helps us see our options differently and this can lead to better business decisions. Convening a focus group does not commit you to their advice. The investment, however, gets you listening to more people think and talk about your business.