Discover the power of "Why": How purpose transforms business strategies
Have you ever wondered why some companies seem to have a magic touch, while others struggle to stand out? The answer might lie in something simple yet powerful: the "why." Inspired by Simon Sinek's famous TED Talk, "Start with Why," let's explore how purpose can be the driving force behind successful culture and operational strategies.
The Golden Circle: Unveiling the secret of success
Imagine a target with three concentric circles. At the center is the "why"; in the middle, the "how"; and on the outside, the "what." Most companies start with the "what"—what they do—and then try to explain "how" they do it. But truly inspiring companies start with the "why." They understand that people don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it.
Apple: More than just computers
Take Apple as an example. If Apple were like any other company, it would say: "We make great computers. They are well-designed and easy to use. Want to buy one?" But instead, Apple communicates: "Everything we do, we believe in challenging the status quo. We believe in thinking differently. Our products are well-designed and easy to use. It just so happens that we make great computers. Want to buy one?" See the difference? It's like comparing black coffee to a creamy cappuccino—one is functional, the other is an experience.
Purpose as the engine of innovation
Purpose is not just a pretty slogan; it's the engine that drives innovation. Think of the Wright brothers, who, without resources or formal education, were the first to fly. They weren't after fame or fortune; they believed that flight would change the world. And it did. Meanwhile, Samuel Pierpont Langley, with all the resources and connections, failed because his goal was merely to be first.
The law of diffusion of innovation
To achieve mass success, you need to win over the innovators and early adopters—those who buy an iPhone on the first day or pay a premium for a flat-screen TV when it was still new. They don't buy the product itself but what it represents. It's like being the first to use a new slang word—you’re not just speaking, you're making a statement.
Cultivating a culture of purpose
For entrepreneurs and startups, integrating the "why" into the company culture can be transformative. It's not just about selling products but about creating a community of people who share your beliefs. When you hire people who believe what you believe, they will work with passion, not just for a paycheck.
The example of Martin Luther King
Martin Luther King didn't have a 12-step plan; he had a dream. And it was this dream that brought 250,000 people to Washington—not for him, but for themselves. They believed in a better world, and King was the catalyst for that belief.
Conclusion: Start with "Why"
So, what is the "why" of your company? Discover it, communicate it, and watch how it can transform your business strategies. After all, as Sinek said, "Leaders who inspire don't make us follow them because we have to, but because we want to." And who wouldn't want to be followed by a passionate crowd?
