What Makes Your Business Different?
Most of the time, what makes us different may not be a complicated process or service. In fact, many of us overlook our key strength because it seems too simple or natural to us. In reality, your differentiator may be something we find easy to do but our clients find amazing. We are taught to believe that things of value have to be hard or complex. Just because these things we do are easy for us does not mean they are easy for others. You need to become consciously aware of this value you provide and use it to your benefit.
Do you:
- Find simpler ways of doing things?
- Serve a niche market better than anyone else?
- Bring a new perspective to challenges that offer unique solutions?
- Package your services in a way that appeals to your ideal client?
- Create systems that help clients learn how to do things more effectively?
Your differentiation should be things that make you different in your field, packaged in a way that others cannot copy. Review your competition for clues as to how you can take your unique strength and combine it with other ways of separating you out from the competition. Record these unique differences and keep working on them until you have one that sets you apart from others and aligns with the needs of your ideal client.
Create a Unique Business Model Based on Your Values
Be transparent to your customers about things you do and why. When you align your company’s mission, vision, and core values with your business model, you create a distinct identity that resonates with customers on a deeper level. By clearly articulating and incorporating your values into every aspect of your operations, you establish a strong sense of purpose and authenticity. This unique business model sets you apart from competitors by showcasing your commitment to ethical practices, social responsibility, sustainability, or other values that matter to your target audience.
Customers are increasingly drawn to businesses that reflect their own values and seek out companies that make a positive impact on society. By differentiating your business through a values-based model, you attract like-minded customers who share your vision and are willing to support your brand. This leads to increased customer loyalty, positive brand perception, and a competitive edge in the market.
A couple things I’ve done in my business is that I don’t mark up other vendors products and services and I don’t join affiliate programs for anything involved with marketing so I can remain completely objective when I recommend them to my clients.
Be Known as the Expert in Your Field
Build a reputation as the expert in your field through your blog posts, books, videos, training and other information products. When you become the go-to authority, customers naturally gravitate towards your expertise, trusting your knowledge and skills. Consistently demonstrate deep industry knowledge, stay up-to-date with the latest trends, and provide valuable insights. This positions your business as a reliable source of information and guidance.
This expertise sets you apart from competitors who may not possess the same level of specialized knowledge. Being known as the expert enhances your credibility and instills confidence in potential customers. This increases trust and willingness to engage with your products or services. Moreover, being seen as the expert allows you to command a premium price, as customers are willing to invest in the superior value and specialized expertise you bring to the table. People who truly have a problem to solve will want to work with the expert.