Which of the following questions characterizes targeting?

Targeting refers to the process of evaluating and selecting the segments of the market that a company aims to serve. The correct choice directly addresses this by asking which segments are desired as customers, highlighting the focus on identifying and prioritizing specific groups within the market that align with the company's offerings. This is a critical aspect of market segmentation, allowing businesses to tailor their marketing strategies and resources to better meet the needs and preferences of these chosen segments, ultimately leading to more effective marketing efforts and improved customer engagement.

In contrast, the other questions pertain to different strategic aspects. The inquiry about the mission relates to the overarching goals and purpose of the organization, while the focus on reducing costs is a question of operational efficiency rather than segmentation. The question regarding brand image emphasizes the perception and reputation of the brand, which, while important, does not directly relate to the process of identifying target segments within a market. The emphasis on customer segmentation underlines its foundational role in targeting within marketing strategy.