Be Like Somoa! Jump Into the Future to Grow Your Business
Are you willing to make some seriously uncomfortable changes in order to make your business grow more? What about trying to control time? Well, the Samoans are doing just that…
According to Prime Minister Malielgaoi, the Samoan Nation’s current place in the time continuum forces them to lose two business/trading days with the Aussies and Kiwis every week. By picking up their ball and playing on the other side of the International Date Line, they hope to more appropriately align their economy with that of their biggest regional trading partners. (NY Daily News)
Think this is crazy? Back in 2009, they actually switched to driving on the left side of the road. (Just in case you’re wondering, there were no accidents reported on the day the change took place.) This was another way of saying, “hey Australia and New Zealand, we’re gonna play ball by your rules, so remember to pick us before that kid with greasy hair and the nasty rash.”
Why is this important for you as a business owner? Adaptability and flexibility are necessary to continuous business growth. Samoa’s willingness to drastically adapt and evolve sends a message to their biggest customers, and their flexibility gives them an edge over those countries that are less flexible. In other words, they have captured their inner-crazy and are bringing it to the playing field.
A business specific example would be one of my most recent clients, Mrs. Diane (leaving out last names for anonymity). She owns a small beach gift shop in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida and is considering retirement, but still maintains the necessary adaptability and flexibility required of entrepreneurship. Her shop carries a nearly indescribable variety of items that has drastically expanded over her initial theme of local art, jewelry, and gifts. Her willingness to meet local demand has forced the possibly unwanted product additions, but also contributed to the growth of her business.
As a matter of fact, her business hours are a direct reflection of consumer demand. While other shops close at lunch on Saturday, she is open all day. Because elasticity has been a major component of her business strategy, she has strengthened her business and as a result, her retirement fund.
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