How to make your startup stand out
A vital element of business success is standing out from your competitors. What is it that makes your business better than all the rest – the business your customers should choose? In the video below from our #VirginWow event, three of the UK’s leading entrepreneurs share their tips for making your startup stand out.
Jacqueline Gold, CEO of Ann Summers
“Initially I was forced to rely on feedback when building up my business, and at the time I thought this was a huge disadvantage to me – but it actually proved to be come one of the biggest benefits. My customers taught me everything I know, and over time that has been translated into our business. Now with social media, you can get feedback from your customers at any time, anywhere.
“Whatever your startup, you need to create an environment where you can take advantage of opportunities that enable you to maximise customer engagement; acquiring this valuable feedback can literally transform your business, giving your customers what they really want.”
Sharmadean Reid, founder of WAH Nails
“I started up with money I’d borrowed from a friend, and with my own money from working - everyone knows what’s its like to juggle two jobs before you take the leap. At that stage you don’t necessarily want to give away your own company because you don’t even know what your company’s going to be yet – you don’t know how successful it’s going to be, you don’t know anything!
“Now, every day is different. I love going into a WAH salon when nobody realises I’m the owner, and hearing people so excited about getting their nails done.”
Annabel Karmel, best-selling author and children’s nutrition expert
“Find your niche – if I had written books on adult cookery I doubt I’d be here today. This doesn’t have to mean you invent something. You don’t have to be an inventor to an entrepreneur – you have to be the best at something. And don’t try and be all things to all people because you’ll fail – do what you’re good at and stick to that niche.
“Also, don’t quit too soon. Sir James Dyson went through over 5,000 failed prototypes before he found one that worked. Failure is the opportunity to start again – just more intelligently.”