So often, owners of
independent businesses think they're at a disadvantage when competing with
bigger businesses. Often, they are. Just as often, however – especially in markets
that are changing fast and where customization or service really matter – entrepreneurs
have a clear advantage.
In a recent
blogpost, business coach Andrea Novakowski related, “8 Ways a Small
Business Can Beat a Big One.” They make a lot of sense.
Here is Novakowski’s list of 8 key "advantage" statements.
1. “I really listen to you and can help you uncover what
you want and need.” Small businesses are all about serving individual customers.
2. “I’m creative and I enjoy solving your problems.” Business
owners really are passionate about their industries.
3. “My reputation is on the line.” Smaller businesses
tend to serve communities (whether they're geographic communities, industry sectors,
or communities of the mind). Reputation matters, and bad reviews hurt.
4. “When you call my company, you talk to a real person.” Because
call
centres suck.
5. “It’s better to be a big fish in a small pond.” Big
companies usually receive great service from small companies, because their business
means so much to entrepreneurs.
6. “We’re more agile.” Independent businesses are usually
more flexible than big companies, where changes from the norm usually requires
layers of approvals.
7. “We make personal connections.” It’s easier
for employees in smaller companies to know their customers. And when you know people,
you want to satisfy them.
8. “I’m grateful for your business.” “Companies”
don’t feel emotions, such as gratitude. The
people who work for small organizations know that customers pay their salaries,
so they're usually more willing to give their all.
I would add only that not all small businesses enjoy these advantages.
Too many businesses, large and small, take their employees and customers for
granted. The winners are those who actually care for their employees, giving them
the confidence and power to give customers the creative, personal service they want
and need. Smaller size and greater hands-on decision-making makes this easier,
but it doesn't make it automatic.
To read Andrea
Novakowski’s original article, please click here.