Finding Your Why in the Business World
Starting a business can be daunting. There’s no escaping it.
Whether you’re trying to come up with a marketing plan, figuring out finances, or finding the best people to come on board, it can feel like a mountain to climb. Thankfully, there’s a piece of the puzzle to get you running up the mountain… or maybe just taking baby steps. Either way, finding your “why” is the first step to your entire business story.
Being able to share your why is an integral part of starting a business because it allows you to articulate why your products or services add value to people’s lives and to the world. That alone makes you stand out.
In order to figure out your why, dig deep and ask yourself the following questions:
What inspired your business idea?
What is unique about your business?
What problem is your business trying to solve?
What is your purpose? Why does your business exist?
Is there a specific cause your business is supporting?
After answering these questions, share them with your team, advisors, and mentors. Seek the opinions of those who understand your company’s vision and mission. A little constructive criticism can go a long way, however hard it may be to here. Better to find the holes in your plan now than to suffer the consequences later. After this, craft your business story.
According to Simon Sinek, leadership consultant and author, The Golden Circle is the key to sharing your story. There are three layers:
WHAT – Every business knows what they do. This category comprises the products they sell or services they provide.
HOW – Some businesses know how they do it. This category comprises the things that make the business special or set them apart from the competition.
WHY – Few organizations know why they do what they do. Why is not about making money. Why is the purpose, cause, or belief behind why your organization exists.
Instead of communicating your what, try communicating your why. Your team will be more motivated when they see the why behind what they do and how it affects others. If you’re interested in starting your own business and finding your why, check out our Business and Industry Management Program at Community Care College.