Strategy - you can get with this or you can get with that...

What truly sets you apart in a world full of competition?

The choice of how you do activities differently and/or how you do similar activities in different ways is a competitive secret to success as an individual, organization, or company. This is rooted in your core purpose (i.e., Golden Circle "why") and allows you to deliver the best value to others.

"Competitive strategy is about being different. It means deliberately choosing a different set of activities to deliver a unique mix of value." - Michael E. Porter (Harvard Professor)

From an individual perspective, I am grateful for coaching early in my career to understand what makes me "unique" in my performance and business contributions. At first, this was challenging for me to see, and I thought if I just worked hard and delivered on goals, then I would be promoted and/or rewarded. I came to realize my performance was a base expectation, and top performers (i.e., my competition) around me were contributing just as well. This put me into the mindset of understanding how and what I naturally, uniquely contribute. The difference came when I was able to clearly and concisely articulate my value and how I was "uniquely" qualified for a role or position.

Understanding your value also helps you refine who your customers are and what niche you should serve. When writing your resume or in interviews, be prepared to simply explain how you are "uniquely" qualified to do the job you are seeking.

Just as individuals benefit from understanding their unique value, organizations thrive when they cultivate distinctive ways of working. What is unique about how your organization achieves results? What would attract talent to your group? What behavior and cultural dynamics are nurtured?

Just as organizations thrive by understanding and leveraging their unique ways of getting work done, companies must take this principle to a broader scale. To succeed in a competitive marketplace, a company must not only define its distinctive value but also sustain it over time through innovation, culture, and strategic differentiation.

Remember, you're always one choice away from actions that create better outcomes. Sometimes you may feel like a "black sheep" with your differences, but that might be exactly what's needed to fast-track your success. History has shown us that embracing what makes you unique can lead to transformative success. Consider the journeys of Starbucks, Tesla, and SpaceX. Take a moment today to write down: What makes you or your organization different? How will you turn that difference into the greatest value for others?

"You can get with this or you can get with that. I think you'll get with this, for this is where it's at. Then of course, the choice is yours."

Harvard Business Review - What is Strategy (Michael E. Porter): https://hbr.org/1996/11/what-is-strategy

© Nuri Dimler 2025