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While weekend markets look like they're fun, they  also serve as a training ground for the country's growing number of aspiring entrepreneurs. These weekend markets in the country provide opportunities for start ups, urban professionals and  employees who want to do business on the sidelines.

During a recent trip to the most popular weekend markets in Metro Manila - the Legazpi Weekend Market in Makati City, and the newly opened Mercato Centrale at Bonifacio Global City - Entrepreneur.com.ph  got some tips on taking full advantage of weekend markets:

Product Sampling

 Patterned after the farmer’s weekend markets in the United States and Europe, where farmers would peddle their wares, the weekend markets in Metro Manila are also venues to sell  homemade products such as pies, cakes, bread, and even vegetable grown in your backyard.

Keep it Simple

Even if most people who go to weekend markets ride chauffeur-driven cars, wear expensive “organic” shoes, and has a yaya to bring their purchases around, it is still best to keep your products simple. Have a simple name for your “brand” and sell your products as they are. There is no need to coin a French term for your grilled pork belly or for baked goods; just name them as they are unless you’re selling French macarons.

It would be best if a stall owner in a weekend market uses the opportunity to practice business skills and perfect them! Instead of asking an assistant to watch over your stall, get as much experience as possible and be hands-on on all the processes. Whether it is checking on inventories or facing customers,  give it your best shot.

Listen to Customers

The informal setting of most weekend markets makes it easier for customers to express their approval, distaste, or the need for adjustments. It is important for entrepreneurs to  listen to what your customers have to say. Weekend markets give you the opportune time to also market test your product and receive feedback too.

Learn from other Sellers

It is true that like you, everyone else at the weekend market is out to make sales,  but it does not have the same atmosphere as a real market wherein it’s a dog eat dog world. Be the friendly neighbor and start small talk with your neighboring stall and learn some lessons that will be help you in your business.