Standing out from your competitors as a small or medium-sized business is a tricky task. However, there are ways it can be achieved. The three most important methods for increasing your chances of standing out are as follows:
1. Offer something unique
The best way to stand head and shoulders above the rest is to offer something that can’t easily be found anywhere else.
Offering products or services that have some unique aspect to them is. Put out content, photography and testimonials that are different from those you see your competitors showcasing. If your online presence looks identical, your would-be customer will probably just pick the cheapest option they come across.
Remember to take out business insurance which could protect you. When you work with a broker to find an option that suits you, you’ll save a lot of time on research and have peace of mind knowing you’ll end up with a policy that’s tailored to your needs.
2. Reward your customers
Providing your customers with an incentive will mean they are keen to come back again. From BOGOF offers to points they can accumulate towards a purchase, there are many ways to encourage growth in the number of repeat customers you get.
The Mention Me 2021 Advocacy Report found that 40% of customers are likely to buy again from brands that reward loyalty by offering a discount on their next order.
What’s more, Invesp claim it costs five times more to attract a new customer than keep an existing one. Therefore, customer loyalty is key to the success of your business.
3. Top-quality Branding
Most importantly, get your branding on point. Make sure your communication style, logo and packaging are all eye-catching and unique.
Branding is something that requires a careful process of planning. This begins with researching your target audience and your competitors. You need to create an identity that resonates with the audience you want to attract, while not coming across as too similar to the competition.
One tip is to find your target audience on your competitors’ social media accounts and even on subreddits that discuss similar products or services to yours. From this, you can glean an idea of what kind of language they use, what their interests are and what they value in the products or services you sell.
Offer something unique. Always shout about what makes your products or services better than the rest and create an online presence that sticks in the minds of customers. Once you’ve attracted the customer, don’t underestimate the value a loyalty scheme can bring to your business.
With these essentials covered, your business will be in the strongest position to grow and outshine your competitors.
