Business Strategy

The danger of being comfortable: Services

The rise in demand of personal services at the touch of a button is an indicator of several important things happening in our modern society. First and foremost – we are busier than ever before, with no signs of stopping. These services are also a signifier of innovative thinking and points us to even greater possibilities in this realm in the near future.

With this landscape literally changing before our eyes, we see disrupters constantly redefining the game. Just because something is working and even finding tremendous success today doesn’t mean that it will be just as effective the next month, or even next week. It’s a certain type of business leader that thrives in this never-ending competitive environment.

If you qualify as one of these individuals, the sky is the limit. If you can pinpoint a nationwide or global service need, package it right, and market to the masses, you could very well be on your way to becoming the next unicorn startup. In this market, you have to aim to disrupt to make a mark worth noticing.

Here are some great examples of companies doing it right, while keeping a sharp eye on what the future holds in their market:

Uber

You know you’ve done something significant when you coin a phrase about the technology you’ve invented. “Uberfication” is used to refer to a business model that mimics what Uber has already defined. With the service available now in over 58 countries and 300 cities worldwide, all you need to do is pick up your cell phone for a reliable and affordable ride to anywhere you want to go. Other similar companies have found great success off the model, such as Lyft and BlackLane. So how is Uber staying ahead of the rest with other similar services? Easy. Uber is now offering deliverables such as to-go meals and food, and will soon be offering a service similar to Amazon Prime Now.

Shyp

Speaking of getting things you want where you want them, Shyp is a true disruptor in the shipping space. Shyp picks up your items, packs them, and sends them anywhere in the world using the lowest cost, most reliable option. In a few “Shyp Hero” areas and scenarios, you can even expect your package to be delivered within 10-15 minutes. Now running on Android and iOS as of March 2015, their audience and demand keeps growing at a record pace. They aren’t without competition, however. Watch for powerful startups such as Atlanta’s own Kanga to be hot on the trail in this market.

StitchFix

The idea of having a personal stylist is something that has always seemed a little out of most people’s reach and budget. Even if you aren’t a fashionista, the concept of having someone to help with your everyday look and wardrobe is quite attractive. With new services like StitchFix, this dream is now attainable for most people. With looks priced for your budget and styling starting at $20 per order, there’s no reason not to look your best. There are even some niche companies branching out for specific audiences, like Bombfell, which specializes in styling for men.

This industry is especially great for those with a passion or skill that they wish to share with the world. Applied to a specific business strategy and plan of action, great success can be found. Do you have an idea that you think others would find useful in their daily lives? We’d love to hear about it and help you develop actionable steps to making it a reality. Let’s chat!

By Jen West