Many traditional businesses struggle to embrace technology and continue to run with outdated processes that make them miss out on profits. The fact remains that companies going the extra mile with innovation are 1.5 times more likely to be market leaders. They perform better with productivity, revenues, and profits.
But how can you get innovative when running a traditional business like garment manufacturing or construction? Let’s dive in and discover how to ride the disruption wave.
1. Develop the Right Mindset
Most business owners working in a traditional domain fear innovation. The wrong mindset can be the biggest hindrance when it comes to adopting new ways of doing things. The best option is to develop and foster the right mindset and be open to change.
Once you get on the right track, you can drive transition for your organization and help people buy into the change.
2. Collaborate with Disruptive Businesses
A disruptive change cannot happen in isolation. Why not collaborate with like-minded businesses looking to join the bandwagon? Chasing common goals can be mutually beneficial and inspiring for both companies.
For example, a textile company can embrace water based ink printing technology by partnering with a reliable ink supplier. The road ahead becomes a lot easier when you have a partner walking with you throughout the journey.
3. Embrace Tech Trends
Moving to the next level is about keeping an eye on the latest trends and embracing them sooner than later. Why not give up the old machinery and processes and adopt automation? It may seem like a hefty investment in the beginning, but the benefits make it worthwhile.
Your business will be in a far better place with more efficiency and new avenues for growth. Not to mention, you gain an edge over the competitors.
4. Take a Customer-Centric Approach
Your customers are the center of everything, right? Traditional businesses should shift their focus from selling products to creating valuable customer experiences. Knowing your customers is the best way to pick innovation. Listen to their needs, identify their pain points, and tailor your offerings accordingly.
Engage with them through social media, gather feedback, and use the data to fuel your innovation plan. Customer-centricity pays off with higher profits and retention. So, get to know them better and make data-driven decisions.
5. Invest in Continuous Learning and Adaptation
In this ever-changing business landscape, staying relevant can set your business apart. Traditional ones must invest in continuous learning and adaptability instead of being stagnant with a set-and-forget approach.
Improve your products, diversify, and encourage your teams to acquire new skills. That’s all you need to do to fulfill your innovation goals.
Running a business in a traditional industry shouldn’t keep you from adopting new technologies, trends, and concepts. But you need to take the right approach and steps to overcome the disruption struggles. You’ve got this, boss!
