Change Is A Business Opportunity

In business, it can be referred to as a pivot. This is your ability to adapt to market changes, demand, and even how the public perceives your product or services. 

American Express began as a mail service. In 1993, IBM posted an $8 billion loss—in one quarter. Netflix used to rent DVDs. None of these companies failed because they adapted to change. IBM, for example, stopped selling hardware and focused on software. And you know how Netflix and American Express pivoted. 

Because you know the success that followed, it is easy to view these pivots mentioned above as positive. But entrepreneurs continue to make these decisions daily. We wanted to show how change can be positive and what to look for before pivoting with your business.

Truly Believing In Change

People usually build a business based on passion. It may be rooted in a product, a service, or a drive to be successful or financially independent. The point is that your business can become a very personal thing. You might not see the product—you likely see the time spent sacrificing and working.

To change your business’s direction may feel like you’re negating your efforts. That perspective will only inhibit you. Look at your previous work as the scaffolding that brought you to where you are now. 

Does Your Idea Have A Shelf Life?

Current success and stability come with no guarantees. Blockbuster and Nokia are two companies whose products didn’t survive external changes. People streamed movies and bought smartphones.

When you adapt to a change, consider how your product or service can be altered, not scrapped. In the 1990s, when Apple was nearing bankruptcy, they didn’t abandon their computers. They created an iPod to meet the demand of people who preferred their music streamed. 

Foster The Right Culture 

When environmental, economic, or political factors force you to pivot, what will your employees say? A rigid, unbending business plan might create employees who are worried about change. Foster a culture that encourages new ideas. Be someone who encourages mistakes because there is no such thing as wrong. There’s success and learning from missteps. 

If the time comes to take your company in a new direction, it will be viewed as an extension of your innovation. By embracing change and encouraging your leaders to do the same, you can improve the present and the future.

Maxwell Dunn

At Maxwell Dunn, we are proud to be the trusted advisors for entrepreneurs and business owners. The demands and challenges of running a business don’t have to be faced alone. Maxwell Dunn goes beyond offering legal services to businesses—we are a business advisory firm. Contact Maxwell Dunn to schedule your consultation.