Make a Successful Firm with Innovations
Everyone knows the business mantra encouraging business leaders to “dream big.” But what about small? Is there value in focusing on the small things in business? The answer is yes.
Successful entrepreneurs focus on both the large and the small of business. For example, focusing on small innovations frees you and your employees from feeling like you always have to swing for the fences.
Solve immediate concerns and find a better way to do things. Even small innovations can change the world, if enough people adopt them. Focus on the details and don’t overlook small problems which need addressing–your clients will thank you for it!
Keep It Small (and Simple)
Keeping it small and simple basically means less risk. If you take smaller risks, you don’t have quite as far to fall while you’re still learning how to walk. Small and simple also means that you’re more adaptable. Ever seen a huge ship try to turn? Imagine a small speedboat zipping circles around that ship. Small and simple businesses are far more adaptable and can change quickly. Finally, growing a business slowly while focusing on incremental and simple change means that there’s far less stress and hassle along the way.
Small Habits Lead to Big Change
Want to make a big splash in business or change something big in your life? Don’t immediately go for the large, sweeping changes. Studies show those are least likely to stick. Instead, try making small, incremental changes. Think about the change you want to see, where you want your business to go. Then break it down into small steps. Focus on getting good at one thing at a time. Then watch the big changes assemble themselves over time.
Forget about Big Data–Start with the Basics
This is the era of big data, of analysis performed on millions of transactions, of powerful computer tools applied to pull meaningful information out of the vast cloud of data. Yet don’t forget that thinking small when it comes to data can still be useful in growing your business. For example, conducting in-depth marketing interviews can discover why people prefer your products and help you build brand loyalty.
Retain Your Customer Focus
Don’t forget who brought you to the dance. As you grow, your customer focus needs to remain front and center. There may be a temptation to shift the bulk of your focus to the big picture, but at the end of the day, your customers who showed loyalty from the beginning deserve your loyalty and attention.
Combine Small and Big Business Practices
So, what’s the best way to balance big and small? Return to your entrepreneurial roots. Steve Jobs once said that Apple was “the biggest startup on the planet.” Throughout his tenure, Steve Jobs always insisted on maintaining a laser-like focus on what people actually wanted. Customers are why you’re in business in the first place. Of course, you need a balance between entrepreneurial practice and big corporate structure. Just don’t forget to reexamine the balance from time to time and keep thinking small!
