Can A Business Avoid Becoming "Super-Corporate?"

When you imagine a modern business, especially a thriving brand, certain scenes probably pop into your head. You might picture people in suits or trendy-casual outfits, bustling offices, overflowing inboxes, cloud storage, websites, SEO, and the list goes on. Frankly, it can all feel a bit overwhelming. While the corporate world may suit some folks just fine, it's tough to argue it's the best environment for nurturing the human spirit to its fullest.

If you've spent years entrenched in the corporate world and now dream of escaping to a rustic shack in the woods, you've likely pondered: Can a business steer clear of becoming excessively corporate, losing its soul in the process? And if so, what could that transformation entail? What actionable steps could you take to forge your own path? Granted, conventional business wisdom persists for a reason – it's effective – but that doesn't mean everyone adores the idea of spending their days tethered to an office desk.

If this sounds like you, you might find some value in the following efforts:

Respect The Humanity Of Your Brand & Audience

Recognising the human aspect of both your brand and your audience is key to avoiding the trap of feeling excessively corporate. Rather than fixating solely on transactions, make it a priority to cultivate genuine connections with your clients and customers. Demonstrate empathy, authenticity, and transparency in all your interactions. Consider the human element in every decision, such as fostering a workplace environment where employees feel valued rather than expecting blind loyalty to the brand. It’s a perspective shift, but an important one.

Support Local Initiatives

Getting involved in your community by backing local businesses, events, and causes is not just good for your business's health; it demonstrates that you're invested in something beyond mere profits. This involvement fosters positive connections with your neighbors and customers. Whether you sponsor a local team, donate to a meaningful cause, or participate in the local market, your presence makes a difference.

Encourage Employee Autonomy

Give your employees the freedom to make decisions and take ownership of their work. We've all experienced the frustration of dealing with a customer service agent bound to a script versus one who can offer tailored solutions based on their own problem-solving skills. Trusting your team to excel in their roles not only lifts morale but also yields superior outcomes. When employees feel appreciated and empowered, they're inherently more driven to contribute to your business's success.

Appreciate & Cater to Unique Or Niche Audiences

You should take the time to understand the specific needs and preferences of different groups of people, and perhaps even pivot your business towards that as opposed to the “golden consumer” that marketing structures like to imagine. We often see this with “mature businesses”, such as those who require high risk payment processor services, but you’ll find a fair amount of possibility within conventional markets. This shows your firm is mindful, and isn’t afraid to move in directions that a super professional or overly restrictive company might shy away from.

By incorporating some of this guidance, it might help with steering clear of adopting a super-corporate approach to business relations.