Lessons From Mother Nature - Unmet Needs

Katrina and Rita. We have seen plenty of practice out there - good and the bad. For Katrina, we were caught with our pants down, and the price to pay is HIGH. Rita, fortunately, at least, for the moment, the damage is contained as the people are well prepared for it.

So what are the lessons? Well, for one, by human nature, we tend to underestimate risks. It is very much in our nature to upfront happier things and defer dealing with the more painful matters. And when the unexpected hit us, the loss can be devastating in terms of costs to human lives and to the economy. On hindsight, things always seem clearer. Well, applying the lessons, we must be passionate in the things we do and assume responsibility for the possible consequences arising for the path we select. In this way, we can always hone and upgrade our core skills especially during times when it does not appear to payoff. However, by remaining steadfast, our conviction should place us in good stead. Needs are always evolving, and with the marketplace getting more volatile, an unmet need will surely emerge with a surge in demand. Service providers that are in a position to provide will win a share of the wallet. It therefore pays for one to be prepared, and stand ready to deliver. Here are some tips as to how you can be prepared.
1. Identify trends and analyse weak signals in the marketplace
2. Stay invested in the core skills and upgrade to meet anticipated needs
3. Create need awareness - constantly engaging and communicating with your audience.
4. Engender a sense of tust and build rapport with your target audience.

When the time arrives where customers demand such a service, you will already have gained sufficient mindshare for them to recall your value proposition.

You will be pleasantly surprised how these little things can all add up to a happy ending!


Keywords: unmet needs, ACE, mindshare, need awareness