So far, I am seeing some really good answers and people are really thinking. I'm going to let more of you reply before I reveal the answer but, here's a clue. One of you has "hit the nail on the head". Keep them coming. Kenneth R Sword Jr

Hi Kenneth I beleive to be prepared to learn about the subject you are studing. Thanks for the invite. Linda

PEOPLE!!! People have needs. Other people can help satsify those needs. People are ENDs, not MEANs!!!!! take care, Greer

Hi Ken, This is a very provocative forum you got going here. However, your question is a loaded question. If you are talking about the "broad" sense of Marketing....the answer is: HAVE A MARKETING PLAN. Now ADVERTISING is a different story: Here you must "know" your target audience. In my 34 years of successful networking...I first come up with a "Marketing Plan" coupled with a "target audience", mix in a whole lot of "persistence" and "determination"....and do the necessary "tweaking" along the path to success. Harold (The Marathon Man) (How to turn $29 into $3Million) http://www.investplace.com/index.php?ref=bigbux

Hi Ken What is the most important thing in marketing? Learning to listen to the needs of your customers. But first you have to get them to tell you,, Just simply ask them as you have done here by starting this thread with a questions. What is the most important thing in marketing?