In this incredible era of instant information, social media and incredible connectivity, it’s more important than ever to have our message stand out from the rest. Especially now with everything and everyone having to adapt to predominantly online promotion and sales. There’s so much that consumers have become very adept at tuning it out. While facts, features and benefits are important, they’re not enough.

Case in point:

It’s that time of year – they’re everywhere. They’re like pop up ads on street intersections every weekend in our neighbourhoods: yard sale signs. Most of us don’t pay any attention to them but I saw my first one of the year this weekend and it made me think of last year just before physical-distancing became a ‘thing’.

I headed out to the trails for a hike after a coaching session and I passed a sign that really stood out . . .

2 Cool Dudes “Cool Stuff” Yard Sale

No fancy graphics, just big, bold letters. Even though I was looking forward to heading into the forest, I followed the sign to see what a ‘cool dude’s stuff looked like. I drove by the house. It pretty much looked the same as other yard sales I’ve been to; furniture, boxes of records (you remember those!) books, etc. with one exception:

There were LOTS of people at this one. Parking was at a premium! (now remember, this was before we had to stay in our ‘bubbles’)

OK, so what did they do to attract all these people?

Simple – they stood out from the ‘noise’ of the other signs. They combined emotion and a bit of psychology 101. After all, who wouldn’t want stuff that is “cool” and belonged to a “dude” as opposed to someone else’s junk that will get thrown away or donated to the thrift store if it doesn’t sell?

Fact: Lots of companies sell exactly the same thing.

Fact: Lots of companies have had to pivot and adapt.

Fact: Some thrive while others go out of business. What’s the difference?
It’s more profitable to be different!

Now Go Get  Connected!

An award-winning Leader, Entrepreneur and Business Development Consultant, Cathy teaches entrepreneurs how to let increase their influence; build their business and stay sane while doing it. She helps you to let go of limiting beliefs to “Stand Up, Stand Out & Step Forward” for business success. Named one of the Top Ten Mentors in Canada, Cathy is recognized across Canada for her expertise on “All Things Small Biz”. She is the Founder of The Connected Woman Association, author of numerous books and articles specifically the internationally known “Daily Espressos- Your Read it and Delete it Kickstart to Your Day”, and is a networking maven. (whew!) 

For information on upcoming workshops, business coaching or to engage Cathy as a Keynote speaker at your next event, visit www.cathykuzel.com 

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