The Tipping Point is a concept introduced by Malcolm Gladwell in his book of the same name. It refers to the moment when a previously slow-moving change or idea suddenly becomes viral and spreads rapidly.
The Small Business Tipping Point
The concept of a Tipping Point is especially relevant to small businesses. This is because they often face the challenge of creating momentum and growth while competing against larger, more established companies. So how can small businesses use the concept of the tipping point to create momentum and growth? By focusing on identifying and targeting early adopters, creating a memorable and compelling brand, and leveraging the power of social proof.
The Law of the Few
The first law of a tipping point is the Law of a Few. This speaks to a small number of people (i.e. “connectors,” “mavens,” and “salespeople”) who can have a disproportionate impact on spreading an idea or trend. When small businesses connect with one of these influential people, it can have a huge impact on their growth. Usually these people are also known to adopt trends early, and they can set trends through their sphere of influence.
The Stickiness Factor
“Sticky” ideas are memorable and resonate with people, and they are more likely to spread. What is the stickiest idea you can find for your business? A strong brand. When you create a memorable and compelling brand, people are going to think of you first when they need your services. Make your brand sticky, and your business will be able to stick around for the long haul.
The Power of Context
It’s not enough to have a good thing. The environment and circumstances in which an idea or trend is introduced can have a significant impact on its success. When you leverage the power of social proof, you’re creating context around what you do. It will help people understand and connect with the idea, no matter how niched down it is.
Create Your Tipping Point
When you consider those three laws of a tipping point, you can leverage them to create a powerful brand that generates consistent momentum and growth. Which one will you start with first?
Grow Your Leadership
Bradley has many resources to grow your leadership in the area of vision and priorities. Check out a few of them:
Desire won’t get you to your goal, but design will. Learn how to leverage both of them in this quick training, Desire vs. Design: Keep reading…
Recently, I heard a podcast from Michael Hyatt talking about why it’s lonely at the top. While we’ve all heard this, and know it to be true, I don’t think it needs to be. Here’s why: Keep Reading…
It’s difficult to get to your destination if you aren’t sure where you currently are! After all, the path from Minnesota to Canada is very different than the path from Mexico to Canada. If you aren’t certain where you’re at today in business, you need to take the Rainmaker to Architect assessment. It will gauge your strengths and weaknesses as a leader and in your business. Then, you’ll get detailed, specific suggestions for improvement. Take the assessment here.