What Exactly Is A Customer Problem Statement?

Small business owners often put in tremendous effort, but it's common to wonder if they are actually addressing the fundamental problems their customers face.That's where the customer problem statement comes in.

So, what is a customer problem statement? It's a clear and concise explanation of the challenges your customers face. It's not about your business, but about your customer’s needs and struggles. Getting this right is key to creating products, services, and marketing that truly resonate.

Why should you care about problem statements?

Here’s the deal. When you understand your customers' problems deeply, you can:

• Create better solutions: Products and services that actually solve real problems.

• Improve marketing: Speak directly to what your customers are dealing with.

• Build stronger relationships: Show that you get them, building trust and loyalty.

• Focus your efforts: Avoid wasting time and resources on the wrong things.

How to craft a winning customer problem statement

Creating a customer problem statement doesn't have to be complicated. Here’s a simple structure to follow:

[Customer] has a problem that [Problem] because [Reason].

Let's break that down:

• [Customer]: Who is experiencing the problem? Be specific. Instead of "people," think "busy working parents."

• [Problem]: What challenge are they facing? What are they struggling with?

• [Reason]: Why is it a problem for them? What are the consequences or frustrations?

Example: "Busy working parents have a problem that they don't have time to cook healthy meals because they are constantly juggling work and family responsibilities which makes them feel like they are failing their family."

Turning problems into opportunities

Once you’ve got a solid customer problem statement, the optimization of your marketing begins! This is where you brainstorm solutions, refine your offerings, and tweak your marketing.

Use your problem statement to:

• Guide product development: Create features or services that address the specific problem.

• Shape your marketing messages: Speak directly to the pain points in your ads and website copy.

• Inform your customer service: Train your team to recognize and solve the issue effectively.

Remember...

• Keep it customer-focused: It’s all about their problem, not yours.

• Be specific: The more precise you are, the better you can solve the issue.

• Validate your statement: Talk to your customers to ensure you’ve got it right.

  
  

The power of understanding

With a clear customer problem statement, you can move from guessing to knowing. So, take the time to uncover those challenges, craft those statements, and grow your ideal customer base.

Looking for help with crafting a customer problem statement as part of your marketing plan? Book a free consultation with MORE TO COME Business Services Inc., an easy, affordable marketing agency for growing small businesses in Canada.

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