Overview
This article explains how to find and define your target demographic for customer research reports in the Publishing.ai software. Understanding your target demographic is essential for creating accurate and effective customer research reports.
What is a Target Demographic?
Definition
Your target demographic is the specific group of people who are most likely to read and purchase your book.
Key Principles
You cannot target everybody effectively
There is always a primary audience most likely to buy your book
You should focus your marketing efforts on speaking directly to this group
How Publishing.ai Uses This Information
When generating your customer research report within a project, you will be asked to specify your target demographic. This information helps the AI identify sub-audiences for your customer research report by analyzing key demographic factors.
Types of Target Demographics
Generational Demographics (Age-Based)
Different generations have distinct traits, mindsets, and communication preferences shaped by their shared experiences.
Generation Categories:
The Silent Generation: Born 1925-1945
Baby Boomers: Born 1945-1960
Generation X: Born 1961-1980
The Xennials: Born 1977-1983
Generation Y (Millennials): Born 1981-1995
Generation Z: Born 1995-2012
Special Consideration for Children's Books:
Books targeting children have a blended demographic that includes:
The child (audience)
The parent (buyer persona)
Both demographics must be considered when defining your target market.
Cultural Identity Demographics
Definition
Cultural identity refers to the feeling of belonging to a group of people with similar experiences, backgrounds, or characteristics.
Key Factors
Cultural experiences may influence how people group themselves based on:
Race
Gender
Sexual orientation
Shared cultural experiences
Multiple identity factors (intersectionality)
Example
*Affirmations for Strong Black Women* targets the cultural identity demographic of black women.
Important Note
Do not stereotype when analyzing cultural identity demographics. Focus on understanding genuine needs and experiences.
Social Class Demographics
Definition
Social class is more about mindset, feelings, and behaviors than material possessions like expensive cars or watches.
Categories
Upper Class
Middle Class
Lower Class
Academic/Students
Entrepreneur
Key Consideration
Focus on how your target reader sees themselves rather than their actual economic status. Reader self-perception often matters more than objective financial circumstances.
How to Identify Your Target Demographic
Research Method
Analyze bestselling books in your niche
Identify demographic patterns in successful titles
Look for common characteristics among readers
Document your findings to input into the target demographic field
Practical Steps
Research bestsellers in your book's category
Note any demographic considerations that stand out
Write down specific demographic details
Add this information to the target demographic box in Publishing.ai
This helps the AI create more accurate customer research reports
Additional Resources
Publishing Accelerator Support
If you are enrolled in Publishing Accelerator, you can:
Discuss your target demographic with workshop coaches
Get guidance from group coaches if you're unsure
Receive personalized help defining your audience
Best Practices
Be specific rather than broad in your demographic targeting
Consider multiple demographic factors that may intersect
Focus on the primary group most likely to purchase your book
Use your demographic research to inform your customer research report generation