We all want to offer something better in our small businesses. But what form should that “something better” take? How do we connect with our customers in a unique way? Here is a wrap up that will hopefully offer some inspiration.
Value
Beating the big guys. One way to stand out against bigger businesses like Amazon is simply to offer something different. Here one smaller Web company talks about outdoing Amazon.com by offering visitors a totally different experience. Bloomberg Businessweek
Adding value. This advice for content marketing, especially as part of a blog, is also applicable when considering any other business you may want to launch. Are you truly offering your customers (or readers?) something worthwhile? Small Business Trends
Trends
Being an outsider. Often innovation has trouble happening from within. That’s why this former academic turned entrepreneur decided it was time to leave the hallowed halls of academia behind. What he offers may change things forever. WSJ
Going even greener. Building an environmentally responsible business requires greater commitment these days. The latest trends in green business offer new opportunities, but pitfalls as well. What green initiatives have you undertaken? Open Forum
Strategy
Tracking your success. Offering better products and services should translate into higher profit and better business for your company. You should also consider better methods of tracking your success. Here are some thoughts. Dr. Shannon Reece
Keeping it simple. If there’s one thing you should remember, along with the need to create products and services that are better than anything available to customers before, it’s the importance of keeping those products and services simple. M4B Marketing
Community
Knowing your prospects. An excellent first step toward offering great products and services is knowing your customers. This is easier than you might think, even in the online world. Here’s where to start. Copyblogger
Listening to your tribe. The group whose members follow you, who are passionate about what you’re passionate about, can also help you make your business better. Listen and they will tell you what’s needed next. Firefly Coaching
Outreach
Using great tools. Many tools give you the opportunity to deliver something better to customers with simplicity and ease. Here’s one example of how you can offer something special to your local fans. Small Business Marketing Tools
Offering customer loyalty. Customer loyalty programs are another way to offer something better. Here is a guide to making customer loyalty programs work and bring in more business. Intuit
