Keeping up with trends is a fool’s game that leaves you running in circles, chasing an endlessly moving target. Today’s hottest hashtag is tomorrow’s yesterday’s news. But what if there was a way to break free from the constant trend cycle and establish yourself as a trendsetter?
This isn’t about ignoring trends altogether. It’s about leveraging them strategically and using your unique voice to create a distinct brand identity that attracts your ideal customers. Here are five ways to stop following trends and start setting them for your small business:
1. Know Your Niche and Own It
Trends are often broad strokes, appealing to a wide audience. The key thing to keep in mind here is that small businesses don’t need to have broad appeal. Indeed, you probably don’t have the resources to cater for a huge crowd. Instead, you want to cater to a specific niche, developing a following of people who need the unique thing you do.
Whether you’re an expert in social procurement for small businesses or a baker with a magic touch, take the time to understand your target market – their needs, desires, and pain points. Become the go-to expert in your niche, providing solutions that cater uniquely to their situation. This allows you to build brand loyalty and become a trendsetter within your specific community.
2. Focus on Innovation, Not Imitation
Trends are often inspired by existing ideas. Instead of mimicking what others are doing, ask yourself – how can I innovate within this space? Can I offer a new product or service that addresses a gap in the market? Embrace a problem-solving mindset. By focusing on innovative solutions, you create a trend that others might follow.
3. Embrace Your Brand Story and Values
Trends come and go, but a strong brand story and core values are timeless. What makes your business unique? What values guide your decisions? Infuse your brand story into everything you do – your marketing materials, customer service interactions, and product development. Customers connect with authenticity, and by showcasing your unique voice and values, you’ll rise above the fleeting trends and attract like-minded customers who identify with your brand.
4. Harness the Power of Community Engagement
Trends are often driven by online communities. So if you want to stay ahead, you need to know what “ahead” even means. To do this, engage actively with your target audience on social media platforms and forums. Participate in relevant conversations, offer valuable insights, and establish yourself as a thought leader within your niche. By proving your expertise and making genuine connections, you’ll attract a loyal following and influence future trends within your community.
5. Experiment Strategically, Don’t Just Follow the Hype
Innovation doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Stay informed about current trends, but don’t blindly follow every fad. Experiment strategically, testing concepts that align with your brand identity and target market. Analyze your results and adapt your approach based on data and customer feedback. This strategic experimentation allows you to identify trends that resonate with your audience, positioning you as a leader in shaping your market space.
Becoming a Trendsetter: It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Setting trends takes time, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. By focusing on your niche, embracing innovation, and staying true to your brand story, you can carve out a unique space in the market and attract loyal customers.
Being a trendsetter isn’t about chasing fame – it’s about building a sustainable business that can have a profound long-term impact. So, stop chasing trends and start setting the pace. Your unique voice and innovative solutions might just be the next big thing.