Here goes…

Written by Angie Seaman | posted in Local Business Value | 0 Comments

I’ve struggled with how to get this started; what topic should I fire across the bow to begin this battle to build a new business in a tough economy. I realized two things, finally. It didn’t matter how, as long I just started and provided value. Which is the first lesson in business for me – I always try to do things “right” and the truth is, there is no right. There is “works” and “doesn’t work.” “Value” and “no value.”  Right doesn’t matter.

When you’re evaluating anything that you put out into the world, the answer to “is there value here?” is really everything.

Are You Sure You Are Providing Value?

When someone comes to your store or your website and they see what you are offering, do they want it? Do they need it? Have you done everything you can to give them the best product?  Not so fast – what do you consider your product?

Because the product is a lot more than the thing on the shelf or page available to buy.  I don’t drive 20 miles to South Mountain Creamery just to pay more for milk, eggs and cheese that I could get at my corner supermarket.  And it’s not even because it’s the best milk I’ve ever had (though it really is, and that’s a big part of it).  It’s because it’s a good experience.

Why Experience = Value

It’s a beautiful drive into the country, and when I get there it’s a hassle-free, pleasant experience.  I can wander around the farm if I feel like it, commune with the cows, and then head in to pick up some fresh milk, cheese, amazing ice cream and have a chat with the person smiling at me from the other side of the counter.

They are never in a rush to push people through the line and out the door.  They say thank you and seem to mean it.  Selfishly, I can feel good about supporting a local, family-owned farm business.  And while I probably spent a few more dollars than I would have at the more convenient grocery store, I’m glad to.  And I do it regularly.  When I can’t go to them, they come to me delivering milk to my door for a small fee which I also gladly pay.

Web Experience Matters Just As Much

And when I do want them to come to me, they have a nicely-organized, easy to navigate website.  I can quickly log in, update my order with the things I want.  All of the products have the information I need to know about them and pictures so that I know what I’m getting.  And when I look at their site, my impression of them matches the experience I get when I go into their store.

So value isn’t about the price, sometimes it’s not even about the product.  All other things being equal, does your customer get the best experience at your website AND when they walk through the front door of your business?

Local Business Value

For this site, my aim is value.  I will showcase local businesses who are striving to provide value for their communities and beyond.  Where they are generous enough to share and where I know things I can pass on, we’ll outline the things that build success and create value.

Value is all that really matters.

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