Mass-produced products are great for large companies and their many consumers, but for those who want something that is a little more unique, indie companies and smaller brands can give unique offerings. Large companies cater to the masses, which is fantastic, but smaller brands can meet the demands of niche audiences. Small businesses are often the best networks for new opportunities. This is because they are closest to their customer and know what they want.
Almost no niche is too small to be satisfied. When smaller companies launch products or services, it is usually because they have a personal connection with them. The thought and heart that goes into creating something shows. That doesn’t mean that you should support smaller companies simply because they are small. Make sure that the businesses you support cater to your needs and uphold the same values that you have.
In short, independent businesses and smaller companies fuel creativity and inventiveness in a corporate space. There are no executives to dictate what is right, instead, entrepreneurs have to freedom to take risks and build a community. Also, they have the responsibility to do it on their own. There is little to no guidance on this. In some cases, mentorship is not an option. All entrepreneurs are left with is the Internet.
But the Internet has proven to be quite the tool for startups. It can give the hopeful creative the opportunity to become a self-published author, an innovative thinker the tools to become a marketer, and the old marketplaces a chance to find new customers. It has leveled the playing field for lots of businesses. It created equal opportunities for those willing to put in the work and understand the new framework for online businesses. Better yet, it has given me the opportunity for some to create a new framework
The traditional structure of the business is changing, evolving to accommodate the ever-shifting powers of the worldwide web. This web of connectivity is the core of all trade and it still remains consumer-centric. Small businesses have an advantage because it is much easier to humanize a small enterprise. Freelancers can connect one-on-one with clients. Larger agencies and companies may have a valuable brand history, but consumers will always look for better deals. If small businesses can reduce expenses and overhead costs, their methods of production will be lower.
Brand loyalty is a topic promoted amongst influencers and large companies alike. They have a bona fide large following, but when push comes to shove, the average consumer is swayed by cost and the value associated. The necessities are still necessities and if someone can get more band for their buck, they’ll chase that.
Standing out isn’t about trying to make your product seem essential by scaring customers into buying. Consumers are aware of marketing trends and cheap tactics, but they are also wary of larger corporations. To capitalize on this and further level the playing field, small businesses need to use the Internet to their advantage. This means learning how to work in an ever-shifting climate.
