How to Conduct Free Market Research

One of the most difficult aspects of running a startup business is marketing your business. In order to market effectively, you must understand your competitors and customers. Unfortunately, most startups don't have the budget to spend on market research. Here are several ways to conduct research without spending money.

Instructions

1. 

   Conduct surveys online. You can set up free surveys at surveymonkey.com or surveyz.com. These sites allow you to send out free surveys and conduct basic analysis. Send your survey to friends, customers, and family members.

2. 

   Conduct one on one interviews. Interview colleagues, friends, and customers face to face. You can offer customers free or discounted products/services in exchange for speaking with you for a few minutes about your business.

3. Partner with a market researcher. In exchange for your services, you can negotiate with a moderator to conduct focus groups for you.

4. Search Youtube. There are many business tutorials that can help you understand your consumers and can also teach you how to conduct basic market research yourself.

5. Search online. Many people have posted market data and research reports online that may help in your situation.

Resources

• Surveymonkey
• Surveyz