I’ve just finished reading an article by Peter Bregman for Harvard Business and thought it contained some really interesting ideas. In the article Peter talks about a software company that’s small in comparison with the big players, yet is winning contracts over them and achieving million dollar *prepaid* contracts.
So what’s going on? It’s Peter’s opinion and ours that customers are nervous about large companies being around to support them and provide the level of service that smaller more focused enterprises are offering. Can you pick up the phone and know you’ll be able to speak to the CEO? Do you know exactly who to call if the work isn’t done to your expectations?
The structure of Urban Voyage means that our partners have the confidence and security of knowing they can call and speak directly to the people working on their project – that comes with dedication and developing personal relationships over time that create trust.
Interestingly he also makes another point about how smaller companies give their employees a sense of security because they have much greater control over their own destiny. In a small company when you do a great job, you are likely to get noticed, in a large company you can be lost (and laid off) more easily.
The public has lost a lot of confidence in large companies, especially those such as AIG, Lehman, Citibank, GM, Chrysler and many more – it’s now perceived as a risk doing business with the big players.
We share the view that Peter has that people simply don’t trust companies anymore. People trust people. It’s the personal touch and hands on approach that seems to be winning the day.
Necessity is the Mother of Invention and right now many people are feeling the pressure to see results and put food on the table for their families. We are coming into a time where technology and need have set the stage for many, many innovative and creative companies to emerge. Niche companies (including Superyacht Builders, Designers and Management Companies) that provide real value and create loyal customers are carving out the knowledge economy New Zealand and the world needs to move forward.
Some big companies are in serious trouble, yet smart boutique firms that understand how to create a niche, add value and be experts in their field are creating jobs and sustainable businesses. It’s an age of change where those that cut deeper, innovate, focus on quality and be true to themselves will survive and thrive.
- Small is the new big.
- Sustainable is the new growth.
- Trust is the new competitive advantage.
If you are looking for a team that you can trust and a CEO that’s only a phone call away – speak to Urban Voyage today.
