Collapse of Distinction is kind of a “how to get your game on” book for businesses. For anyone who has a business or who is thinking about starting one, this book is helpful from the perspective of pushing you to be a little risky. Scott McKain focuses on the personal and unique aspect of business – of making sure you stand out in the crowd. He maintains that the best way to be successful is to stand out. Most businesses try to conform to what the customers are demanding or to whatever campaigns their competitions are running against them. Blockbuster and Hollywood Video spring to mind as trying to run on the same path – no late fees and “no return date.” I think McKain would argue that that is not helpful for either company when it comes to standing out and daring to be different.
McKain argues that consumers will always be demanding things but you shouldn’t always feel like you need to cater to their every whim. Instead, you should say who you are, what you intend to do or promote and stick to making yourself the best you can be at that particular thing. Recently I heard of an Ohio restaurant that allows customers to pay what they think is fair for their meal. What’s that? Yup, you heard that right. The owner of the restaurant decided not to charge. THAT is standing out and that would be making a name for yourself in the business world! (That’s a risky business move and I’m not sure I’d ever be brave enough to try it although it is intriguing. I wonder how soon it will be before that concept is completely taken advantage of and there is a policy change from the grill!)
This book is motivating and encouraging if you’ve ever thought of running a business but have been afraid to that take leap! Of course, today’s economy is so shaky who knows what any of us will be doing long term but these are still important business concepts, not to mention intriguing!
Carrie comes by her book and holiday obsession honestly, having descended from a long line of bibliophiles. She blogs about books regularly at Reading to Know.
[…] (Gregor the Overlander)9. Carrie, RtK (Breach of Trust)10. Carrie, RtK (Train Picture Books)11. 5M4B (Collapse of Distinction)12. 5M4B (Novel in a Year)13. hollybookscoops (10 Ways to Make Your Sister Disappear)14. 5M4B (If […]