Jul 30 2009
The Key to Business is Adaptation and Flexibility
I love reading the comics over my morning cup of tea. My dad used to call them “the funnies,” but the older I got the less funny they were, but there are still a few I like.
Adam@home, by Brian Basset, is one of them. I certainly can relate to the challenges of running a business from home.
Whether you are operating a lemonade stand like these kids, or a retail store it’s important to understand the principle of adaptation and flexibility. You may have a really good quality product and give great service but if your customers can’t find you, you have to find them. Here are a few good tips to remember.
1. Don’t get too attached to anything in your business. Things change and you have to be willing to change as well. Business that stay stagnant are the ones that disappear.
2. Remember the message of the “Survival of the Species.” The businesses who let go and adapt are the ones who stay in business. When the health food fad started, McDonald’s put in a salad bar.
3. Look outside of your own office or shop. Notice what’s happening around you and offer products that speak to that pulse or need.
When the recession hit, I realized that small businesses would be in a great position as long as they could adjust their business plan and be willing to invest in their business. As a business owner, you have control over your job security. Adaptation and flexibility need to be your best friends.
Can;t read the strip. Looks funny though!
The ability to be flexible and adapt quickly is one of the greatest advantages we have as small business owners over larger competitors. It all about listening and learning from our customers as to their needs and wants as it relates to what our businesses might be able to provide.
Once you know what is needed, then it is simply a matter of planning and quick execution.
Pete
Sorry the strip is not readable. Hmm. not sure why. Basically his kids are complaining because no one is stopping at their lemonade stand because of the construction across the street. Their dad says, “The key to business is adaptation and flexibility. They decide maybe they need to move their stand to the part where people are exercising and need a drink. Dad says, if they make money he wants a cut.
As Marc says, its all about listening to our customers and providing what they need and sometimes as in this strip, it’s about being willing to change a tactic so your customers can find you:)
Thanks to both of you for finding my blog and commenting.
Thanks for reading and commenting.