How to compete against larger companies

Do you think that because you have a small business you can’t compete against larger companies? If you do then think again. Most small business owners don’t feel that they are in the same arena as larger companies so they don’t even bother to try. This can be a big mistake and one that can cost your company in the long run.

Growing your company takes some competitive moves. Sure, you can continue to operate as you always have but this routine will not get you ahead. There are some tips, however, if you want to expand your business opportunities and compete against the big boys.

Think big. Always have the big picture in mind. Thinking big means picturing what can be more than what already is. The day to day routine can get you in a rut and you can get so hung up on it that you fail to look ahead.

Have passion. Loving what you do can help you get ahead. The passion you have for your business not only helps catapult the company ahead but also helps motivate employees on a daily basis. Passion also translates directly to sales. The passion you feel for your business can be more easily brought to the bottom line when there are fewer employees. Larger companies have to work twice as hard to get the same feelings across to customers.

Think outside the box. This may sound like an old clichй but it really is true. If you can have vision to do things differently you just may get ahead. This is particularly true when it comes to competing with larger companies. Think of ways that your company can provide something better than the large company can.

Think ahead. Instead of thinking about this month’s numbers you should be looking towards the future. Great companies are made by revolutionaries - those who look ahead to the future to see the possibilities. Larger companies may use large telecom services such as OC3 connection. You can use the same technology on a smaller scale by ordering a T1. This state of the art communication service allows you all the same features and benefits at a much smaller cost.

Find your niche. Once you know what your market is you’ll be much better able to cater to it. Larger companies often lose focus and try to market to too broad a group. Instead use your marketing skills to your advantage. Yes, you have a much lower marketing budget than the larger companies do. But you can use your marketing strategies to your advantage if you know your niche.

Use the Internet to your advantage. The web has brought large and small companies to an even playing field. Make sure that you use the Internet to boost your business. Always have a web site presence. Don’t skimp when it comes to your website. You don’t need lots of pages but you do need a professional look. Be sure to put your website address on all your brochures and business cards.

Provide what the big companies can’t or don’t. Look for weaknesses in your competition and use those to build your business. For example, one place where many larger companies fail is in providing good customer service. Small businesses can give better service because they care about each customer. Be sure to use that to help you win business over the larger competition.