We live in an age of specialization. Of course, this isn’t the first age of specialization, but things have become so specialized that it seems we need a person, machine, and item for everything. When it comes to efficient and streamlined small business operations, whatever happened to multi-purpose?
One of my favorite business technological “machines” is my multi-purpose computer printer/copier/ and fax machine. There is something about laying down money for a machine that is made more satisfying in knowing that machine can do more than one thing! Instead of how I used to do things—a separate fax machine, a separate printer for the computer and running to Kinko’s when I needed to make a lot of copies—I much prefer the multi-purpose uses of my current machine. It minimizes expense in terms of electricity and equipment, and it takes up far less space than three separate machines. There is definitely value to me in having a multi-purpose machine!
I think we can apply multi-purpose mentality to our businesses in other ways. Customers and clients respond well to getting a “package” of products or services from small businesses. Instead of having to work with a variety of vendors and suppliers, the more comprehensive the package of goods or services they can get from us, the more loyal a customer they are likely to be (and the more money we can make per client/customer). Is there a way that you can make your business offerings MORE multi-purpose and more comprehensive? Are there add-ons that would add value and usability to what you have to offer? Can you expand your services to “wrap around” what you already do and boost the average sale or improve your profit margin? Is there a way you and your business can become more “multi-purpose” friendly?
Also: Mastering the International Fax
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