Recognizing the most efficient way to determine a business opportunity is a process that is so often overlooked that an entire article is now dedicated to the subject.

In order to maximize the benefits of this concept you have to be willing to involve yourself in field research. It will involve deductive reasoning and the ability to recognize that square pegs fit in squares not circles.

Some people who do not use this concept rely on their ability to be competitive instead of being the only place where your products or services can be found.

Interestingly small towns seem to understand this concept and are often successful in developing businesses that are useful to those who live in their town while allowing the owner to maximize profits by being able to deliver the needed goods.

What is this revolutionary concept?

Pay careful attention.

Are you ready for it?

“Find something no one else is doing – and do that.”

I know it’s as impressive as it is simple. Many 20th century business owners and those who came before understood the value of individuality. Most towns didn’t need six hamburger shops so they settled for the one started first. New restaurateurs were consigned to finding a new menu line that was unique or they had to prove they were markedly better at serving quality burgers and fries.

In small town America there was very little overlap in businesses. Each owner found their niche and they did well simply because they were the only one taking care of that need.

With the advent of larger general merchandise and discount stores many of these entrepreneurs faded away. However, the Internet remains a place where the mindset of “Find something no one else is doing – and do that” can come into play.

Because the web is a global marketplace it is not unreasonable to believe there would be thousands of individuals selling flowers online, but what about a business that catered to women wanting a thoughtful gift for the man in their life that would actually leave an impression. I’m brainstorming and I came up with a Tool Bouquet. Sure it’s a niche idea, but a quick search online and I can’t find anyone else doing it.

Can’t you imagine a husband getting a steel parts bucket filled with a tastefully arranged group of hand tools with a possible power tool in the middle?

I don’t know maybe there’s a reason why no one does that, but you get the idea - find something unique and make it your own.

Businesses have always succeeded because the owner understood that in order to be successful they also had to be unique. They couldn’t look, act, and do business exactly the same as other stores. They had to find out who they were and then do ‘that’ really well.

Be revolutionary. Make money by being unique. Improve your personal wealth by entertaining new ideas. Many businesses succeed because that can or will do things other people can’t or won’t.

Find a need – and fill it.

Revolutionary, or just plain common sense?