For marketers, a persona represents a group of people that have certain pre-selected characteristics.

When developing a persona, a marketer will determine which habits, traits, demographic, psychographic (etc) characteristics their best clients possess. These qualities will help them target their messaging to them.

For example, say you own a boutique that sells high-end baby furniture, clothing, toys, etc. Who is going to be your best customer?

Odds are, your best buyer is going to be:

  • Female (aged 24-40)
  • Affluent (household income over $75,000 a year)
  • Well educated (obtained college degree)
  • Stay at home mom
  • 3 kids or less
  • Active outside of the home
  • Involved at children’s school
  • Enjoys vacationing, travel

Each of these characteristics can be brought together to form one persona.

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