7 replies to this topic

[solidgold]

Is it sensible to try to make yourself seem different from the rest of the market? In a marketplace as overcrowded as web design, is it a sensible bet to try and make my freelance journal seem seperate and different from everybody else, or is it better to stick with the norm?

[Randy]

You're always better off trying to differentiate your site/service/product from the norm. This goes whether the marketplace is crowded or not, though it's even more important if you're in a crowded market. In markeing it's called having a Unique Selling Proposition, or USP.

Being the same as everybody else isn't going to get you where you want to go. Being unique will.

[solidgold]

ok, thanks for clearing that up!

[Jill]

Yep, what Randy said!

[bullet_prove]

you also need to keep your service up to date always, don't just stick at the same idea for a year. Always keep aware with your competitor and keep yourself close with the client by be friendly and serve them better.

[etechsupport]

I think it is always good to analyze the wide range of customer behaviors, their taste and interst, specific market before you launch a product especially if you've plan to open your field widely, this will help you to come up with some USP.

[Scottie]

you also need to keep your service up to date always, don't just stick at the same idea for a year.

If it works, why would you change it because it's been a year?

Always keep aware with your competitor and keep yourself close with the client by be friendly and serve them better.

If you spend all your time chasing your competitors, how will you ever be better than them? A general idea of what's going on with your competitors is a good thing, but you're better off focusing on what you can do that's unique and useful.

[tigertwo]

In any industry, one great way to differentiate yourself is to ask your prospects great questions. So many people try and get other there and sell what they do, but as you said, when a market is overcrowded, and everyone has almost identical skills (on paper) - they all do the 'best customer service' and 'best communication' - then the way you can really make a difference is to find out exactly what the problem is that your prospect has, and then let them know how you can fix it.

Just like blogging, you need to think about them. Find out exactly what it is they need and where they have had problems getting it. Then solve it for them.

Good luck!