I’m not a parent and this is not a comment on parenting. It is a comment on running a viable and sustainable business and the importance of product/ market fit
Every Tuesday morning I go to an early Pilates Class and then have coffee and breakfast at our local café. Café Sofia is one of those local institutions where regulars are treated like family and new comers are warmly welcomed into the family. They know how we like our coffee and they make our breakfast just the way we like it.
This could easily be an article about them, and it’s not. (There is a blog article about Café Sofia here)
This week as we sat in the small back dining room I overheard an interesting conversation between Pearl and her mum. Pearl is almost 3 and we have known Pearl pretty much since she was conceived (I mentioned it is a family cafe). They are regulars as well.
“No I want Triangles” Pearl, in a matter of fact voice.
“Your choices are soldiers or squares” mum, in her matter of fact voice
“No, I said I want triangles” Pearl, now a bit more determined
“Triangles won’t work. You can have soldiers or squares” mum, with a hint of frustration
“But I want triangles” Pearl, and you decide what that tone is …..
How often in business do our customers ask for “triangles” and we say to them “Well no, we only have soldiers or squares” or the metaphorical equivalent.
The #1 reason that businesses fail is “No Market Need”
I see it over and over as I mentioned in my previous article. Whether at Startup stage or in an established business if what your customer wants is different to what you offer there is no compelling reason for them to buy your product or service.
Pearl was in the market for “triangles” and all that was on offer was “soldiers or squares” so she wasn’t interested. As I said this is not about parenting.
This is about business and the importance of understanding product / market fit, the importance of listening to what your customers are looking for and meeting their need.
Lesson for you as a business owner:
- What do your customers want from you?
- What problem do they need solved?
- How are you going to solve it?
- Solve it for them!
Take action and solve the issue for your client – Not for you … For your client