Here are a few practical questions that highlight why contrast can help your business and leadership:
1. What differences do I bring to the table?
With every year, the iPhone adds a new feature or aspect that differentiates it from the competition and previous models. Is there something I do differently in my field/service/product? Maybe it comes down to an ethical method, or the fact our customer support is 24/7. Highlight the differences as to why someone would want to choose YOU.
2. I know what I am good at. But what am I not so good at?
Getting people to admit weakness, is difficult to say the least. As a business, it’s imperative that you recognize the areas that you aren’t strong. Why? Focusing efforts on the areas where you are strong, and knowing your limitations will prevent you from dabbling in areas where you cannot provide quality or expertise. My friends would never call me to help them with their plumbing, but they would invite my opinion on event management any day! I’m perfectly okay with that.
3. Am I trying too hard to be something I’m not?
There are always larger companies, more innovative companies, and more successful entitles than you and I – that’s life. The sooner I realize what my identity is, and what space and services I offer to my consumers and clients – the quicker I can capitalize on being the best in that niche. Too many people try to copy other corporate philosophies and structures. It’s great to use others as inspiration, but people come to you for a reason – so make that the reason why you work hard to be you.