Better than your competition.
Manifestor of better than.
As Mel Robbins once said, "You’re never going to feel like it," and I echo that sentiment. There will never be a perfect moment, enough money, or boundless energy. Do it anyway. Nothing changes if nothing changes. It's both simple and complex. If you don’t take action, your business might not survive another year or even six months. You need to be proactive about your livelihood. What worked before won’t work forever—your customers and their expectations constantly evolve.
Don’t get too comfortable. If your business can’t run smoothly with or without you, it’s not a business; it’s a job. As a solo entrepreneur or small business owner, there aren’t enough hours in the day to do everything efficiently. This doesn’t mean you’re a terrible business owner; you must make essential decisions and delegate.
You might think, "We’re just a small outfit without a marketing budget." But having a business without marketing is impossible. Seventy percent of consumers rely on online reviews and engagement when researching products and services. This means that when someone like Bob wants new shoes, he goes online. He checks who’s buying them, where they’re sold, who has sales, the most straightforward website to navigate, the fastest turnaround, the best product photos, the quickest loading site, and the most transparent purchase details.
You need to think like your customer, the end user of your product or service. For example, don’t market to other plumbers or electricians. Avoid using technical jargon to impress. Skip the elaborate explanations about how things work because nobody cares. I might think I want to know everything, but when an electrician starts explaining, I want my problem solved. I want to see why I should choose you over ten other guys who can come today. I want to trust a company that delivers on its promises and provides clear information. People want information quickly and easily without having to search for it.
Communicate your value and content effectively. Highlight what makes you different. What do you offer that others don’t? What do you do that your competitors don't? Think from the customer’s perspective and speak directly to them. Focus on one person in your mind, not a group, and sell to them!
Marketing isn't just a task; it’s a commitment to growing your business and adapting to your customers' evolving needs. Like a muscle, it requires consistent effort and care. The more you invest in it, the stronger it becomes, and the more resilient your business will be in the face of challenges. Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance are the foundation of your success.
Don’t let the fear of the unknown hold you back. Embrace the journey, learn from your experiences, and continuously refine your approach. Your business deserves to flourish, and with a solid marketing strategy, it will. Remember, every effort you put into marketing is an investment in your future. Let your passion and determination shine through in everything you do, and watch as your business thrives and grows beyond your wildest dreams.