Let’s talk about some of the most clever moves we’ve seen in the business world.
First up, we have Slack. Did you know it started as a video game company called Tiny Speck? They were working on a game called Glitch, but it wasn’t making any money. So, they had to think fast and switch gears. During the game’s development, they had created an internal communication tool. They thought, "Hey, if people don’t want our game, maybe they’ll want this tool." And just like that, Slack was born. This quick thinking really paid off for them.
Next, let’s talk about Apple’s App Store. When the iPhone came out, it was a big deal. But what really set it apart was the App Store. Apple didn’t just sell a phone; they sold endless possibilities. They gave developers a platform to create and sell their own apps, which expanded the iPhone’s functionalities. Now, the App Store is filled with a diverse range of apps that cater to all kinds of needs and interests.
Then there’s Netflix’s shift to interactive content. Streaming services were facing tough competition, and it was hard to keep viewers engaged. So, Netflix started experimenting with interactive content, where viewers could make choices and dictate how the story would unfold. It started with an episode of Black Mirror and expanded from there. This strategy worked brilliantly and set Netflix apart from the rest.
Disney also made a smart move by launching its own streaming service. They capitalized on the growing trend and leveraged their vast library of popular content to attract subscribers. This move allowed Disney to control content distribution and capture a larger share of the streaming market.
Elon Musk’s decision to release the Tesla Cyberwhistle was also a clever move. It helped build loyalty among Tesla fans and grabbed a lot of media attention. These product launches keep Tesla in the news and make the brand more interesting. Plus, these collectibles are usually low-cost to make but can be sold at a high price, which means they can make a good amount of money quickly.
Apple’s decision to open its own retail stores was another shrewd move. At the time, it was unusual for a computer manufacturer to sell directly to consumers. But Steve Jobs envisioned an environment where Apple could control the customer experience from start to finish. This move paid off big time. Apple Stores quickly became the gold standard for retailing, providing an immersive brand experience that drove both product sales and brand loyalty.
Lastly, let’s not forget that smart business moves can be simple. One of my acquaintances was successful as a solopreneur but was struggling to balance work and personal life. So, he reached out to a mid-sized business with tools that complemented his own. He was bought out and since then grew even more while having less on his plate. This simple step had a direct impact on his life and his work. You don’t have to do something unique or overly clever to make a shrewd business maneuver. Just identify your problem and find the most direct solution to it.
