Sure you’re better than the competition, but how are you different?

This really hit home while I was walking in San Jose and came across a Tesla storefront. Yup. A retail storefront for their cars. Talk about standing out. What a different marketing strategy to increase customers. No wacky waving balloon man or salesmen in a parking lot. Just a retail storefront on a retail block. It’s intriguing. Instead of avoiding a car lot because you don’t know if you want to speak with a salesperson, there’s a sense that one would be lured into this storefront as if to ask, “What is so special about these cars you don’t even need a lot?”. Well played, Tesla, well played.

By now you know I firmly believe that different is better. Following the standard industry model may not yield the most success let alone make you the best. Challenging your industry and standing out – now, that is something we can work with.

So how can we stand out and increase customers you ask? A while back I gave a keynote called Different is Better. In this talk I shared how in grade school I learned in science class that we are wired to notice something different. Something different offers an opportunity. Now, as an entrepreneur, I have recognized actions you can take in your business that play into the hard wiring of your customers minds. Here are just a few methods I discussed:

Names are magnetic. No one likes to feel like a number. Want to increase customers? Remember their name, it is one of the most powerful things we can do in and out of business. When you remember someone’s name it makes them feel valued and connected to you. They are encouraged and feel comfortable working with you. Again and again. Foster an actual relationship between you and your customers and see customer retention increase.

Speaking of fostering customer relationships, let’s talk about reciprocity. No, not bribing! Reciprocating in kind. Reciprocity shows an investment in the customer relationship. When someone we are connected with has a life event or when I have a meaningful conversation or encounter, I try to send a little token of appreciation. Giving a thoughtful handwritten note or small personalized gift is not only a kind response, but it greases the wheels of social and business interaction – and loyalty.

Those are nice things to do right? Now what about the nuts and bolts of your business? For instance, what is the name of your company? I mentioned this before in my blog when talking about bold titles. A label that is a little different and distinguishes you, making you memorable to others has a big impact is very powerful. Come up with a unique name and logo that makes you stand out and resonate with your potential clients.

So – what are we going to do? Break out of the paradigm! Break the generic label! Ask yourself, how are you challenging your industry? What is the industry norm – and what you can do that is radically different? Better is okay, but if you want to knock it out of the park, be different!

If you want more tips like this go to Mikemotorbike.com or Mikemichalowicz.com and click on Get the Tools for tons of tried and true resources for business help and how to run a truly profitable business. Let’s rock entrepreneurship!