How we do business has changed.

How we do business has changed. The way consumers shop and clients view companies based on their social responsibility footprint have undergone significant change.

Is it now enough to just sell products and services, or do our customers want more? Do they want to feel connected – with a brand, a lifestyle, a set of values and a purpose that resonates with their own, before they make the decision to buy or to participate?

In responding to these changing demands, the easy option is to bunker down – to protect what we already have – justify, defend and wait, insisting “our industry is different. It is just a fad and they aren’t our buyers anyway.” Kodak, Blockbuster Video and Radio Shack were masters of that game.

The challenge is to listen, face reality and lead. In my experience, few business leaders have the courage to push their company where customers are headed, yet this is exactly what is required to remain relevant.

I like to ask my clients “if you started a new company in direct competition with your own, what would you do? Considering everything you know about the business landscape, how would you put your existing company out of business – or at least cut its revenues in half?” Challenge your current team with this question. Observe its impact. What thoughts and ideas does it elicit – and from whom? You will very quickly understand where the future leadership within your business lies.

At RVan Consulting, we are committed to driving better outcomes for our clients, not only for today, but in delivering a sustainable model for continued success well into the future.