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Strategies to Win in a Demanding Business Environment: 5 Ways to Grow Your Business

Written by: Bill Tamminga

Article Overview: In the midst of such a demanding business environment, many companies are struggling to increase sales. In light of that, how can a company grow? What are possible sources of increased revenue?

Strategies to Win in a Demanding Business Environment: 5 Ways to Grow Your Business

In the midst of such a demanding business environment, many companies are struggling to increase sales. In light of that, how can a company grow? What are possible sources of increased revenue?

Growth Within the Current Target Market

The first source of growth, and often the least expensive, is growth within the company's present target market. The company will adopt a market penetration strategy to pursue opportunities with clients who do not presently use the company's products or services. The primary concern for companies that adopt this strategy is expanding market share.

Seeking New Markets

If a company has exhausted its efforts within the current target market, it may be time to look to other markets that could use its products or services.

Product Development

It may be advantageous to create at least one new product to offer the current target market. Selling to current clients is easier and less expensive than introducing a company to a brand new market, so many companies find this to be a good strategy for growth.

Product Diversification

The final growth strategy involves creating new products for entirely new markets. If there is an underserved market demanding certain products or services, it is a good idea to be the first to market to that set of consumers - especially if the company has the talent and time to pursue the opportunity.

Integration

Companies often consider acquiring suppliers, wholesalers, retailers, or other distribution channels. A company may even consider purchasing a competitor.

What Does This Mean For Your Company?

One of the first things a good growth consultant will do is analyze each of these strategies for possible opportunities in the marketplace, but you can do this yourself if you have the time. Answer the following questions for your own business and see if there are some opportunities that may lead to more sales this year.

1. Can I market my product or service to more people within the United States?
2. Can I market my product or service to more people internationally?
3. Are there people outside of my current target market who may benefit from what I sell?
4. What other products would my current market find useful?
5. What other product or service ideas do I have that will help people outside my current target market?
6. What under-served market do I know about? What services or products are they demanding?
7. Can I improve my margins by purchasing equipment, suppliers, other distribution channels, or competitors?

The answer to these questions will shed light on the best ways to expand. Once you have decided which strategies you will employ, take action. You can be sure that competitors will react quickly to take away any advantage you have gained.

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Article Tags: business environment, competitor, consumers, distribution channels, expanding market, first source, growth strategy, integration companies, market penetration strategy, market share, marketplace, midst, own business, product diversification, target market, underserved market, wholesalers, year 1



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