Size Does Matter

How Small-Medium size businesses can compete with the Goliath's in their industry?

The reference to Goliath tells us exactly how we can compete against these giants. Most, if not all of us, have heard the story of David and Goliath. How this underdog, armed with rock, slingshot, and faith, overcame his far-superior and larger opponent, with a stone-shot to the head and God's will be done.

Now I'm not about to question God's will, or Faith, or dispute the story, afterall my name is David. But I did recently hear a different take on it called "the Unheard Story of David and Goliath" by Malcolm Gladwell. In it, he talks about what some perceived as a disadvantage, he viewed as an advantage. Size being the most notable. To most, the giant clearly had the distinct advantage, yet he pointed out that the larger size often meant slower, less agile, and inability to react quickly. Same for the weaponry, the mighty sword versus the rock and slingshot. Again, however, the sword required close contact while the slingshot had precision from a distance.

The same holds true as small-medium businesses try to compete against the giants in their industry. Turn our so-called disadvantages into our advantages.

Size. Offer a more personalized service to your customers. React quickly to their questions and concerns. Adapt rapidly to changing trends. Get the customer involved in the process.

Weaponry. Let's just call it Products and Services. Focus on servicing key needs (specialization) rather than trying to be everything to everybody (commodity). And then provide the very best product and service that meets those needs. Excel above the competition. The giants are in all likelihood providing a general service (commodity) at an average quality at a price. Become that precision expert Slinger!

Always ask, how can I turn this into an advantage what others believe to be a disadvantage? And don't forget to have faith.