Make Your Start-Up Stand Out From the Competition

Your product or service doesn't have to be completely unique to be a success. In fact, if there are other similar products already on the market or coming out at the same time of yours, it means there is a demand for it. If your idea is a completely new concept, it becomes more of a challenge for customers to adopt it. Competition reassures you that your idea is valid and in demand. But how do you persuade customers to choose your product over the others?

If there's a high demand for the type of product or service, you don't need to take over the whole market. Focus on a specific niche of customers and tailor your product specifically to them. Find out which needs of a certain group aren't being met by the products already on the market and adapt your idea to meet those needs.

Another way to stand out is if you can offer your product or service for free while others are selling it. That's not to say you won't be selling anything. Make the product or service free but sell premium add-ons or subscriptions. If this isn't feasible for your business model, think of what else you can offer to add value that competitors aren't providing.

You can also make your business stand out with an exceptional customer experience. As a new small business, you may be able to provide a personal touch that larger competitors can't. If your competitors focus on mass-producing and automated customer service, make your customers feel that your product is made just for them, and give them the opportunity to speak to a real person. Even if your product is essentially the same, outstanding customer service can set you apart.