Get Started
Home Authors Tags

"一种战略描绘了公司寻求独特的领域。"

Michael Porter
Michael Porter Economist
Translations
🇺🇸 English 🇨🇳 中文 🇪🇸 Español 🇪🇬 العربية 🇫🇷 Français 🇮🇷 فارسی 🇯🇵 日本語
Quote meaning
When we talk about strategy, it's about figuring out where a company stands out from the crowd. Imagine a bustling marketplace filled with vendors selling all kinds of things. Each vendor needs to decide on a specific spot where they can attract customers and offer something unique that no one else has. That's the essence of strategy in business—finding that special place and making the most of it.

This idea isn't just theoretical; it's rooted in the day-to-day grind of running a business. Think back to the 1980s when Apple was trying to find its footing. At a time when most companies were focusing on producing generic, beige computers meant for offices, Apple decided to carve out its niche. They chose to focus on design and user experience—making products that were not just functional but also beautiful and easy to use. This decision defined their territory in the tech world, setting them apart from the competition.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Consider a small coffee shop in a city that's already brimming with big coffee chains like Starbucks and Dunkin'. How can this little shop compete? They decide to focus on creating an exceptional customer experience, offering cozy seating, free books to read, and a menu filled with unique, locally-sourced treats. They also host community events like poetry readings and local art exhibitions. By doing so, they carve out a unique space for themselves—appealing to customers who value a personalized, community-focused atmosphere over the convenience of a quick coffee from a chain.

So, how can you apply this wisdom in your own ventures? Start by identifying what makes you—or your business—different. What do you offer that others don't? Is it superior customer service, a unique product feature, or perhaps an innovative approach to solving a common problem? Once you pinpoint that, focus your efforts on that area. Invest in it, refine it, and make sure your customers know about it. It's not about being everything to everyone; it's about being something special to someone.

Let me tell you a little story to illustrate this. Imagine you're a graphic designer in a town filled with other graphic designers. You’re all skilled, talented, and capable of creating beautiful designs. But you notice that no one is specifically catering to the needs of local non-profits and small businesses. So, you decide to specialize in affordable, high-quality design services for these groups, who might not have huge budgets but still need professional design work. You host free workshops to help them understand the basics of good design and offer flexible payment plans. Over time, you become the go-to designer for local non-profits and small businesses. They appreciate your focus on their specific needs, and word spreads.

In the end, it's about staking your claim in a crowded market by offering something that sets you apart. It doesn't mean you have to reinvent the wheel—just make sure your wheel has a unique spin that only you can provide. So go ahead, figure out what makes your business special, and shout it from the rooftops. Your territory is waiting for you.
Related tags
Business Business growth Company Competition Differentiation Market positioning Planning Strategy Unique
MORE QUOTES BY Michael Porter
FEATURED QUOTES
Surprise me with another quote
Instagram Icon Facebook Icon X Icon Threads Icon