There’s no shortage of takers in the world of commerce. They rarely take the time and energy to give something, anything beyond the minimum. Frequently their gain is the customer’s loss. Their perspective is limited to next quarter’s earnings report.
The taker’s business plan has a short shelf life. Takers come and go quickly. Rarely will a taker’s customer willingly make a second purchase, let alone make a referral. When a new profit opportunity presents itself, they quickly drop everything. Their job means little beyond a paycheck.
Enter The Rule. Some people know it as the Golden Rule.
The Rule marketer knows that great business relationships are long term propositions. He’s willing to feel the customer’s pain by absorbing some of the cost of that relationship. She upgrades her skills and stays up to date. It’s more than a job; it’s almost a religion. He’d never offer the customer a deal he wouldn’t take himself.
“Rulers” rule the marketplace, because they’re comparatively scarce. Their services and advice are widely sought after and hence more valuable to the customer.
Yes, there’s more to a successful business model than the Rule. Still, it’s rare to find any long term success if you don’t take The Rule to heart. Slogans, PR buzz and mission statements ring hollow these days. But follow The Rule and people take notice.
Tomorrow’s winning business model seems quite contrarian these days. Offer more depth, if not breadth. Take better care of your customers, no matter how much it hurts.
The Rule be with you.
