I am also still in the start-up phase of my business and have not begun marketing. However, I have given a lot of thought to the types of clients I would like to market to. I am very strong in spreadsheets and databases but not as strong in graphic arts and design. I love doing research, organizing data, and turning it into useful information. I also have a degree in Environmental Management, so one market which holds a lot of appeal for me is environmental consultants.

I also have experience with start-up businesses -- developing forms, work flows, and filing systems. Therefore, another potential market for me is start-ups.

I have also worked as a legal liaison coordinating between doctors and attorneys on automobile accident and workers' compensation cases. So I am considering marketing to attorneys and doctors.

I have not finalized a marketing plan yet. I am still letting the ideas roll around in my head.

Actually, you can "by the way your posted your post", get into Surveys for companys and their clients or their employees for a marketing and employment perspective.
Try going to "Gallop Poll" website. They do many surveys (customer satisfaction surveys and Employee surveys for major companys).

I'm just starting out as well. I am working for a friend right now and she is an herbalist. I have another friend starting her own business doing the same thing. I also have friends in the healing business. The people I know in these fields like what they do, but hate the business end of things. This is where we come in! I also want to market myself as one who can do research for companies. I do this at my day job and it's amazing what you can find for information out there just looking at websites, forums etc. I checked out the Gallup website and it's great! ~ Lena

I do medical billing and coding. I also do social media management.

This thread is extremely helpful! While I like my chosen niche (somewhere in the realm of communication graphics/WordPress/marketing), I'm still still all over with my target clientele. I keep saying small businesses but even that's wide open. It's funny the polls show that trainers and coaches in particular need assistance as I've been immersed in studies that highlight instructional technologies and may have a leg up on how that set thinks. Thanks for the poll and good to know!

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this discussion. I am a new VPA and trying to target my marketing campaigns. I am offering both admin and lifestyle support to busy execs and small businesses. This discussion has helped me to think about what "small business" I want to target and be more focussed.

When was this poll last updated? I would be interested in knowing if the top industries have changed since 2012 when this poll first appeared.

Great poll! My clients have been retail entrepreneurs, consultants, tech startup founders, and training and coaching professionals. Our personal skills and strengths vs. client needs determine which professionals gravitate toward our services.

My niche is construction, transportation, emerging/established businesses & nonprofits.

Thanks for suggestions,guys. I guess it will help us alot.

__________________
Ennovation Consulting is the perfect online Research partner & Virtual Assistant for any small business across the World.