Do you remember when it seemed that the most important thing was to be just like everyone else? I learned very early in my business career that the things that make us unique are often the same things that can make us extraordinary.
But have you ever considered what makes your business unique? If not, you could be missing out on creating a business that's really wonderfully unique and successful.
When I ask business owners what makes their businesses stand out from everyone else's, I'm surprised by how few are able to describe what's special about them. Sometimes it makes me wonder, if you don't know why I should buy from you instead of somebody else, then... why should I?
Maybe the trouble is we're still holding onto the old belief that we're supposed to look like everyone else. It's time to let that idea go and embrace what makes you exciting and original!If you can't easily answer the question, "What makes your business different from everyone else's?" here's your chance to find out.
I've come up with three questions you can ask yourself to discover your business's unique qualities and use them to build a business that's out of the ordinary.
When you're uncovering what makes your business one-of-a-kind, the first question you'll need to ask yourself is, "What do I do?" If you dig deep down to the core of what you really do, I know you'll find something that makes you stand out from the crowd.
For example, do you design unique artwork or do you create fun ways for your customers to express themselves? Do you just refinish antique furniture or do you help busy people reflect on simpler times? When you examine what you really do, you'll discover it's something that no one else does.
Next, ask yourself why your customers buy from you instead of someone else. What makes you different from businesses that are similar to yours?
You'll be able to glean a few ideas of your own by visiting your competitors' websites or stores. To get more in-depth answers, ask your customers why they decided to purchase from you instead of from the shop down the street. Their feedback will probably reflect your business's unique strengths. Now, you need to find out how can you build on those strengths, and make sure everyone else knows about them too.
Finally, why do you do what you do? Is this something you've dreamed of doing since you were a little girl? Did you simply take advantage of an opportunity that came your way? Do you find sincere joy in helping others add beauty to their lives? This is a very personal question, but one I can assure you that we all have the answer to.. You might need to listen to your heart to find this answer.
The reasons that you do what you do are a very big part of what make your business unique. Each of your customers benefits from everything you put into your work, from the quality of what you produce to the pleasure they'll find in talking to you about their purchase. The part of yourself that you pour into your business is something that can't be replicated by anyone. It makes your business unique!
Now that you've discovered what makes your business stand out in the crowd, it's time to let those qualities shine. Get ready to share your true heart and find an extraordinary business!
Joyce Lucas, Founder & CEO
Make Mine Pink
Cottage Collections
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