Changing ways is difficult. Clients are so entrenched in their business and know what their competition is doing every second. They look at every advertisement and think to themselves "what they are doing must be working."
The trouble is that strategy of following never works. The first one in wins. The followers get the crumbs and limit their potential market share.
There is a fine line between doing what the client likes, and doing what works: leading. Convincing the client to try to set themselves apart when everyone else in the market has the same message shouldn't be that tough. The clients that have the stomach for change end up winning and set a course for success, and make the others reactive.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Monday, May 26, 2008
Loyalty
These days loyalty is on life support. Gone are the days where people and business value being loyal to a person or service. There are no handshake deals, contracts are honored less and vows are broken.
Why is it that the grass is always greener on the other side? Human nature I suppose, but there used to be a sense of pride when you said, "I've been coming to Jojo's for the last ten years". Even though another Italian restaurant chain down the street has opened and may have similar food for twenty five cents less.
I'm not saying to stick with someone who has done something awful to you, or if they botched a major project that cost your company's money or reputation.
I'm suggesting that you have an open discussion with the person or business and let them know exactly why you are considering a change. Be honest with them and give them an opportunity to fill your need. If it makes sense to make the change at that point, at least your former relationship knows where they stand.
Why is it that the grass is always greener on the other side? Human nature I suppose, but there used to be a sense of pride when you said, "I've been coming to Jojo's for the last ten years". Even though another Italian restaurant chain down the street has opened and may have similar food for twenty five cents less.
I'm not saying to stick with someone who has done something awful to you, or if they botched a major project that cost your company's money or reputation.
I'm suggesting that you have an open discussion with the person or business and let them know exactly why you are considering a change. Be honest with them and give them an opportunity to fill your need. If it makes sense to make the change at that point, at least your former relationship knows where they stand.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Relationships
Relationships are complicated. In business and in your personal life, the relationships you form will have an impact on who you are perceived to be as a person. If you don't work on enhancing your relationships, the connection will begin to fade.
I've learned that by being honest in your relationships you get to the truth much faster. Sometimes that truth is positive. Sometimes the truth makes me realize something about myself, and make changes.
With my customers or in my personal relationships, it's better to get to the truth faster. Then I can work hard to make myself better today than I was yesterday.
I've learned that by being honest in your relationships you get to the truth much faster. Sometimes that truth is positive. Sometimes the truth makes me realize something about myself, and make changes.
With my customers or in my personal relationships, it's better to get to the truth faster. Then I can work hard to make myself better today than I was yesterday.
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