BIG vs. Small. How SMBs can do More with Less.

I’ve been in startups pretty much my entire working life. At least since I was 20 years old. Since then, I’ve always been competing against other larger, more established, better funded businesses. It made me better by learning how to do more with less.

Here are a few broad tips based on some of the things I’ve found where small can go toe-to-toe with BIG without having to outspend them.

1. Identify your niche:

Find a specific market or service that you excel in and focus on building your brand around that. Don’t try to “boil the ocean” by trying to solve lots of problems. Just solve one first, and do it better than anyone else.

2. Focus on customer service:

Smaller businesses can often provide more personalized and attentive customer service than larger companies. Use this to your advantage by emphasizing your commitment to customer satisfaction. I often send handwritten notes, pick people up at the airport instead of having them take a cab, and even send food and chocolates I know people love to go the extra mile.

3. Leverage free tools:

There are many free digital tools available that can help small businesses streamline their operations, manage finances, and improve marketing efforts. Some examples include Google Analytics, Hootsuite, and Mailchimp. My personal go-to is Canva which helps me create, collaborate and publish without missing a beat.

4. Embrace digital marketing:

Digital marketing is a cost-effective way for small businesses to reach their target audience and build their brand online. Use social media platforms, email marketing and SEO strategies to promote your business and connect with potential customers. Take time to dig into data and build an opt-in community through good, original content and regular publishing schedules.

There are obviously more things smaller businesses can do to compete with larger ones, but focusing on these few will definitely make a positive impact on your growth.

-Grant