#BrandPositioning

[troika-branding]

Introducing Our Brand New Website!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new website! Explore our innovative branding solutions and learn how we can elevate your brand. Visit us at troika.agency!

[webnameseller]

Quit Hiding Your Best Work

If your best domain isn’t on display, it’s just another parked page.

[apekshamore6799]

Reduced Risk Products (RRP) Market Consumer Behavior Shifts and Strategic Brand Positioning Trends

The Reduced Risk Products (RRP) Market is experiencing a notable shift as consumer behaviors evolve alongside health awareness and lifestyle priorities. This transformation is compelling brands to rethink their positioning strategies in order to remain competitive and relevant.

The Rise of the Health-Conscious Consumer

Today’s consumers are more health-conscious than ever. This trend directly influences the adoption of Reduced Risk Products (RRPs), which are designed to offer alternatives to traditional combustible tobacco. People are increasingly aware of the long-term health risks associated with smoking and are proactively seeking safer options.

With greater access to health-related content online, consumers are better informed. They’re looking beyond packaging, evaluating nicotine levels, chemical content, and the scientific backing behind product safety. This has prompted brands to prioritize transparency and evidence-based claims in their messaging.

Generational Preferences and Buying Behavior

Different generations interact with RRPs in distinct ways. Gen Z and Millennials, who are digital natives, are more open to trying new products and are influenced heavily by online reviews, influencers, and peer feedback. They prefer sleek designs, innovative technology, and customizable experiences.

In contrast, older generations such as Gen X and Boomers tend to focus more on product reliability, ease of use, and a seamless transition from traditional smoking. Brands targeting these consumers emphasize familiar product forms and user-friendly features to lower the entry barrier.

Emotional and Lifestyle Positioning

Successful RRP brands are not just selling a product; they’re selling a lifestyle. Positioning strategies now center around how products fit into a healthier, more mindful way of living. Campaigns often focus on empowerment, personal choice, and wellness, aligning the brand identity with consumers’ aspirations.

Visual storytelling and emotionally driven content are key tools. For instance, showcasing testimonials of people who’ve switched from cigarettes to RRPs or highlighting the environmental benefits of using recyclable pods can resonate deeply with eco-aware or wellness-focused buyers.

Digital Influence and Omnichannel Experience

Digital transformation plays a huge role in shaping consumer perceptions. Today’s RRP buyers expect seamless digital experiences—from brand discovery on social media to product education on official websites, and purchasing through mobile-friendly platforms.

Social media influencers and online communities contribute significantly to brand engagement. Many consumers are introduced to new products through unboxing videos, review blogs, or social endorsement. Brands are increasingly partnering with credible voices to build trust and broaden reach.

Moreover, data analytics from digital touchpoints are helping brands fine-tune their strategies based on user behavior, engagement rates, and feedback trends.

Personalized Marketing and Product Customization

Personalization is no longer a luxury—it’s a consumer expectation. RRP brands that offer customizable product features such as flavor variety, nicotine strength, and design personalization often enjoy higher consumer retention.

Marketing strategies are now built around segmented campaigns. Brands use consumer data to craft messages tailored to specific groups—such as first-time users, loyal customers, or health-focused individuals. These targeted efforts improve relevance, brand loyalty, and ultimately, sales conversions.

Trust and Credibility in a Competitive Space

In a market where safety and health are critical concerns, trust is a major differentiator. Consumers gravitate toward brands that are transparent about ingredients, undergo independent testing, and comply with regulations.

Clear labeling, access to lab reports, and responsible marketing (especially regarding youth) are crucial to gaining consumer confidence. Additionally, consistent customer support and after-sale services help solidify trust in the brand.

The Role of Brand Consistency

Brand consistency across platforms reinforces credibility. Whether a consumer interacts with a product ad on Instagram, visits a website, or walks into a store, they expect the same brand voice, values, and promise.

Brands that maintain uniform messaging and visual identity—while adapting to platform-specific formats—establish stronger brand recall. Over time, this contributes to increased customer lifetime value and brand advocacy.

Strategic Shifts in Product Portfolios

Consumer demand is influencing the types of products offered. Brands are moving toward product innovation that reflects health-conscious desires—like devices with fewer chemicals, biodegradable components, and longer battery life.

There's also a growing emphasis on limited-edition releases, eco-friendly packaging, and subscription models. These innovations cater to both novelty-seeking consumers and those valuing convenience and sustainability.

Conclusion: Aligning Strategy with Behavior

The RRP market is no longer about replacing cigarettes; it’s about aligning with changing consumer lifestyles. Understanding and adapting to shifts in behavior—driven by health awareness, generational preferences, and digital engagement—can help brands position themselves more effectively.

Brand strategies that embrace transparency, customization, emotional connection, and digital fluency are better equipped to lead in this rapidly evolving space. As the consumer base continues to diversify, staying aligned with their evolving expectations will be the key to long-term success.

[strictlytinyjourney]

📊 How to Conduct Market Research for Your Growth Plan

Want to grow your business with confidence? It starts by truly understanding your market.

At iBCSCorp, we believe that smart, strategic growth begins with research—not guesswork. Here’s how to get started:

1️⃣ Use the Right Research Techniques

Mix qualitative methods like interviews and focus groups with quantitative data from surveys, web analytics, and industry reports.

✅ Pro tip: Look for patterns in customer behavior, not just opinions.

2️⃣ Know Your Competition

Study how your competitors:

Market themselves

Engage with customers

Price their offerings

Position their brand

This helps you spot gaps in the market—and fill them better than anyone else.

3️⃣ Ask Your Customers Directly

Your current customers hold the answers. Use:

Feedback forms

Online reviews

Follow-up emails

Their insights will help you fine-tune your message and your product.

4️⃣ Use Surveys & Focus Groups

Need broad insights fast? Use surveys. Want rich, detailed perspectives? Try focus groups.

Each offers value—use both to validate ideas and improve direction.

5️⃣ Make Decisions Based on Facts

Market research is only as good as the action it inspires. Use what you learn to:

Launch new products

Refine messaging

Enter new markets

Reposition your brand

📌 Don’t rely on assumptions. Let your data lead the way.

💼 Partner With iBCSCorp

We help businesses like yours turn insights into impact. From competitor analysis to customer behavior, our market research services guide you to smarter, stronger decisions.

👉 Let’s get growing—together. [📩 Contact us now for a free consultation!]

[mdjomiruddin]

Are you feeling lost in crafting your brand identity? It's a common hurdle for many entrepreneurs and small businesses. Thankfully, Branding5 is here to help. This revolutionary AI-powered platform is designed to streamline your branding process, offering deep insights and clarity to elevate your marketing strategy. With Branding5, you’ll discover your unique brand archetype and receive a comprehensive analysis that goes well beyond basic templates. Imagine having access to actionable insights grounded in real data—everything from customized positioning statements to detailed customer profiles. Whether you're a solo founder or managing multiple brands, this tool offers incredible value without the hefty agency fees. Plus, their lifetime deal means you can have powerful branding support without ongoing costs. If you're ready to take your brand from vague ideas to a clear, effective strategy, check out our blog post for a detailed review of Branding5. Your journey to branding clarity starts now. #Branding #MarketingStrategy #AI #Entrepreneur #SmallBusiness #CustomerInsights #Branding5 #BusinessGrowth

[hollister-usa]

POST 5: HOLLISTER TARGET MARKET

Hollister’s primary market segmentation focuses on Generation Z and young Millennials—those between the ages of 14 and 24. These consumers live online, are style-conscious, and want brands that reflect their identities. Using both demographic and psychographic segmentation, Hollister carefully tailors its message, products, and experience to match the wants and needs of this generation.

👥 Demographic Profile:

Hollister’s ideal customer fits into these core categories:

Age: 14–24 years old

Gender: All genders, though campaigns often lean slightly toward a female audience

Income: Low to moderate income, often dependent on parents or part-time work

Education: High school and college students

Location: Suburban and urban areas, especially in the U.S. and expanding global markets

🧠 Psychographic Profile:

Hollister’s success comes from tapping into the mindset of its audience. These psychographic characteristics are key:

They value self-expression through fashion

They seek emotional connections with brands that reflect their identity

They're influenced by peer groups and social media trends

They care about brand values, like sustainability and inclusion

They want to feel “seen” by the brands they wear

📚 References

Kotler, P., Armstrong, G., & Opresnik, M. O. (2022). Principles of Marketing (18th ed.). Pearson. Statista. (2024). Hollister consumer profile – United States. Retrieved from https://www.statista.com

[nextdimensionstory]

Have you ever wondered what makes customers choose YOUR brand over others? It’s not just about the product—it’s about how you make them feel! If you are struggling to attract the right customers and wondering how some brands effortlessly connect and engage with them - the answer is how you position your brand through smart decision-making.

 From identifying the right audience to crafting a message that resonates, every successful brand thrives on strategic decisions. It’s time to shift your approach if your customers aren't engaging. 

Hi, I’m George Eapen, your Business Branding Coach in NDS with over 20 years of experience. I’ve worked with top global brands, helping them master these marketing and sales strategies that resonate, engage, and drive engagement and sales. Now, I want to help YOU do the same!

Join our Magnetic Brand Marketing & Sales Course, and learn how to position your brand and make strategic choices for lasting success. 

Identify and draw in your potential clients 

Discover their more profound emotional demands for long-term engagement

Create an engaging USP that makes you stand out 

Tell your brand's narrative in a way that encourages sales and loyalty

So, don’t just sell- CONNECT! SIGN UP now for Online Growth Marketing and Business Storytelling courses and master the art of branding to captivate, convert and turbocharge your business! Check out - https://www.nextdimensionstory.com/business-branding-video-course

Start with our power marketing FREE worksheet to start mapping your 10x business growth strategy - https://www.nextdimensionstory.com/marketingonepager

[streakeye]

How to Do Market Research

What Is Market Research?

Market research examines consumer behavior and trends in the economy to help a business develop and fine-tune its business idea and strategy. It helps a business understand its target market by gathering and analyzing data.

Market research is the process of evaluating the viability of a new service or product through research conducted directly with potential customers. It allows a company to define its target market and get opinions and other feedback from consumers about their interest in a product or service.

Research may be conducted in-house or by a third party that specializes in market research. It can be done through surveys and focus groups, among other ways. Test subjects are usually compensated with product samples or a small stipend for their time.

How Market Research Works

Market research is used to determine the viability of a new product or service. The results may be used to revise the product design and fine-tune the strategy for introducing it to the public. This can include information gathered for the purpose of determining market segmentation. It also informs product differentiation, which is used to tailor advertising.

A business engages in various tasks to complete the market research process. It gathers information based on the market sector being targeted by the product. This information is then analyzed and relevant data points are interpreted to draw conclusions about how the product may be optimally designed and marketed to the market segment for which it is intended.

It is a critical component in the research and development (R&D) phase of a new product or service introduction. Market research can be conducted in many different ways, including surveys, product testing, interviews, and focus groups.

Primary Market Research /vs/Secondary Market Research

Market research usually consists of a combination of:

Primary research, gathered by the company or by an outside company that it hires

Secondary research, which draws on external sources of data

Primary Market Research

Primary research generally falls into two categories: exploratory and specific research.

Exploratory research is less structured and functions via open-ended questions. The questions may be posed in a focus group setting, telephone interviews, or questionnaires. It results in questions or issues that the company needs to address about a product that it has under development.

Specific research delves more deeply into the problems or issues identified in exploratory research.

Secondary Market Research

All market research is informed by the findings of other researchers about the needs and wants of consumers. Today, much of this research can be found online.

Secondary research can include population information from government census data, trade association research reports, polling results, and research from other businesses operating in the same market sector.

History of Market Research

Formal market research began in Germany during the 1920s. In the United States, it soon took off with the advent of the Golden Age of Radio.

Companies that created advertisements for this new entertainment medium began to look at the demographics of the audiences who listened to each of the radio plays, music programs, and comedy skits that were presented.

They had once tried to reach the widest possible audience by placing their messages on billboards or in the most popular magazines. With radio programming, they had the chance to target rural or urban consumers, teenagers or families, and judge the results by the sales numbers that followed.

Types of Market Research

Face-to-Face Interviews

From their earliest days, market research companies would interview people on the street about the newspapers and magazines that they read regularly and ask whether they recalled any of the ads or brands that were published in them. Data collected from these interviews were compared to the circulation of the publication to determine the effectiveness of those ads.

Market research and surveys were adapted from these early techniques.

Focus Groups

A focus group is a small number of representative consumers chosen to try a product or watch an advertisement.

Afterward, the group is asked for feedback on their perceptions of the product, the company’s brand, or competing products. The company then takes that information and makes decisions about what to do with the product or service, whether that's releasing it, making changes, or abandoning it altogether.

Phone Research

The man-on-the-street interview technique soon gave way to the telephone interview. A telephone interviewer could collect information in a more efficient and cost-effective fashion.

Telephone research was a preferred tactic of market researchers for many years. It has become much more difficult in recent years as landline phone service dwindles and is replaced by less accessible mobile phones.

Survey Research

As an alternative to focus groups, surveys represent a cost-effective way to determine consumer attitudes without having to interview anyone in person. Consumers are sent surveys in the mail, usually with a coupon or voucher to incentivize participation. These surveys help determine how consumers feel about the product, brand, and price point.

Online Market Research

With people spending more time online, market research activities have shifted online as well. Data collection still uses a survey-style form. But instead of companies actively seeking participants by finding them on the street or cold calling them on the phone, people can choose to sign up, take surveys, and offer opinions when they have time.

This makes the process far less intrusive and less rushed, since people can participate on their own time and of their own volition.

How to Conduct Market Research

The first step to effective market research is to determine the goals of the study. Each study should seek to answer a clear, well-defined problem. For example, a company might seek to identify consumer preferences, brand recognition, or the comparative effectiveness of different types of ad campaigns.

After that, the next step is to determine who will be included in the research. Market research is an expensive process, and a company cannot waste resources collecting unnecessary data. The firm should decide in advance which types of consumers will be included in the research, and how the data will be collected. They should also account for the probability of statistical errors or sampling bias.

The next step is to collect the data and analyze the results. If the two previous steps have been completed accurately, this should be straightforward. The researchers will collect the results of their study, keeping track of the ages, gender, and other relevant data of each respondent. This is then analyzed in a marketing report that explains the results of their research.

The last step is for company executives to use their market research to make business decisions. Depending on the results of their research, they may choose to target a different group of consumers, or they may change their price point or some product features.

The results of these changes may eventually be measured in further market research, and the process will begin all over again.

Benefits of Market Research

Market research is essential for developing brand loyalty and customer satisfaction. Since it is unlikely for a product to appeal equally to every consumer, a strong market research program can help identify the key demographics and market segments that are most likely to use a given product. Market research is also important for developing a company’s advertising efforts. For example, if a company’s market research determines that its consumers are more likely to use Facebook than X (formerly Twitter), it can then target its advertisements to one platform instead of another. Or, if they determine that their target market is value-sensitive rather than price-sensitive, they can work on improving the product rather than reducing their prices.

Visit Now: www.streakeye.com

[laurafaritos]

HDMS023. How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market—Without Changing Who You Are

I swear, Harvard is out to break me. At this point, I’m pretty sure this course is designed to separate the weak from the strong, and I’m clinging to survival mode. I just wrapped Module 2, and while most of my classmates have already moved on to Module 4, I’m here—still processing, still behind, still figuring out how to apply all this marketing knowledge to a career that isn’t selling footwear, skincare, or tech, but selling me.

But that’s the thing: selling yourself as a creative is HARD!!!!!

The second you put yourself out there, the world has opinions. You should be more relatable. You should cater to a general audience. You should play it safe. You should look a certain way, act a certain way, become more like what’s already working—because that’s how you "succeed."

But as this module has taught me: playing it safe is the fastest way to disappear!!!!!!!

This post is about standing out in a crowded market, whether that market is comedy, content creation, or literally any other creative field. It’s about understanding the power of differentiation and why the best brands (and comedians) don’t just chase trends—they create their own lane.

This module focused on competition and what it really means to position yourself against other brands. But for me, this topic hit differently—because if you swap "brands" with "comedians," it becomes a conversation about finding your voice, owning what makes you different, and rejecting the pressure to fit in.

And I learned this lesson the hard way.

I. The Harvard Module Recap: How Brands Differentiate Themselves

This module was all about competition—but not in the way we usually think about it. When most people hear "competition," they think of winning vs. losing or being better than everyone else. But this lesson flipped that idea on its head. It’s not about being better than everyone—it’s about being different in a way that makes you the only real option for your audience.

To make this clear, Harvard introduced The 3 Cs Model of Brand Positioning—which breaks down three major things a brand needs to analyze in order to stand out and stay competitive:

Consumers – Who are they? What do they need? Does your product (or brand) actually solve a problem for them in a way that resonates?

Competition – Who else is out there? How do people view them? What makes them successful? And more importantly, how can you be different in a way that matters?

Company – What do you bring to the table that no one else does? Is your advantage distinctive, defensible, and durable?

Understanding the Power of Differentiation

At the heart of this module was a key idea: If you try to be everything for everyone, you end up being nothing for anyone.

A great example of this was e.l.f. Cosmetics. Before e.l.f. came onto the scene, the beauty industry had a clear divide: luxury brands (high quality, expensive) vs. drugstore brands (affordable, but low quality). There wasn’t a strong middle ground—until e.l.f. disrupted the market by offering prestige-quality makeup at drugstore prices. They didn’t just compete with existing brands; they created their own lane.

OOFOS, the shoe company Harvard has been using as a case study, is facing a similar challenge. They started as a "recovery footwear" brand, making shoes that help with foot pain and post-workout recovery. But most people don’t even know what recovery footwear is. Instead, consumers lump OOFOS in with Crocs, Birkenstocks, and other “comfy shoe” brands.

So, OOFOS has to decide:

Do they compete in the comfort market, even though it's crowded?

Or do they push the idea of "recovery shoes" and try to create a whole new category?

If they go with comfort, they’ll be up against huge brands like Nike, Adidas, and Crocs, and they'll struggle to stand out. But if they double down on recovery, they’ll have to spend time and money educating people about why they need recovery shoes in the first place.

It's a classic branding dilemma: compete where people already are, or create a space where you're the only real option.

The 3 D’s of Differentiation: How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market

Once a brand figures out its positioning, it needs to make sure that its value proposition is:

Distinctive – Does it make you unique? If another brand can copy you easily, you’re not distinctive enough.

Defensible – Can you prove you’re different? Do you have a unique process, technology, or approach that competitors can’t steal?

Durable – Will this advantage still matter 5-10 years from now? Or is it just a temporary trend?

For OOFOS, their distinctive advantage is their foam technology that absorbs impact better than other shoes. Their defensible advantage is the scientific research that proves their shoes actually help with recovery. And their durable advantage is the fact that people will always need pain relief and foot support, especially as they get older.

This framework can be applied to any industry, including comedy. Which brings me to...

II. The Saga of Finding My Voice: What Comedy Taught Me About Branding

If this Harvard module has taught me anything, it’s that I have spent so much of my career letting other people define what I should be. What I should talk about. How I should structure my jokes. What my comedy is allowed to be. And what’s wild is—I didn’t even realize I was doing it. I didn’t realize that instead of following my gut, I was blindly following rules I was never supposed to follow in the first place.

I’ve been doing comedy since 2016. And if I had to break down my journey so far, I’d say:

I sucked for the first three years.

I was okay for the next three.

And for the last two years, I’ve been finding my way back to myself.

This year? This is the first time I can say with my whole chest: I know who I am as a comedian. I know my strengths. I know what makes me different. And I know, with complete certainty, that every “rule” I let shape me in the past wasn’t a rule at all. Just someone else’s opinion—one that I should have rejected instead of letting it rewire my entire brain.

But I didn’t reject it. Because I didn’t know I could.

Autism, Rules, and Taking Things Too Literally

For years, I thought I was just a person who was “really good at listening to advice.” I thought I was being smart by taking notes, following what my professors and fellow comedians told me, and trusting that they knew better than I did. But what I know now—what I didn’t know then—is that I’m autistic. And the thing about being autistic as hell is that my brain doesn’t just take advice. It takes instruction. It takes absolutes.

So when someone in comedy told me, “You can’t do X,” my brain didn’t process it as their opinion.

It processed it as:

🚨 X IS BANNED. NEVER DO X. IF YOU DO X, YOU WILL GO TO COMEDY JAIL. 🚨

Which, in hindsight, is so dumb. But it’s exactly what happened.

When I started comedy, I already had a strong voice. I had killer stories—the kind of stories that actually made me funny. Like:

The man with the milk bag story.

The time I fought a raccoon for a bag of Doritos.

The stupidest questions Canadians have asked me about Brazil.

These were real, lived experiences that I told in a way that only I could. My natural humor was rooted in longform storytelling.

But then I went to comedy school.

And the professors told me: "That’s not stand-up. That’s storytelling. You need to start from scratch."

And I believed them. I thought, oh. Okay. Well, I guess I have to throw everything away and learn how to do “real” comedy from the ground up.

And that? That was the beginning of a three-year identity crisis.

Losing My Voice in an Attempt to “Fit” the Mold

For three years, I tried to force myself into a comedy mold that did not fit.

I was told that “real” stand-up comics tell one-liners or tight, 2-3 minute jokes. I don’t naturally think in one-liners. My jokes unfold as stories. But instead of fighting for what made me different, I thought, Welp, I guess I have to figure out how to be a one-liner comic now.

I was told that my set should be entirely about the fact that I’m Brazilian but don’t “look” or “sound” Brazilian. Because that’s what the general audience (read: racist Canadians from Alberta) would notice first.

And for three years, I tried to force myself into that perspective. I got on stage night after night with jokes that boiled down to:

"Ahaha! I’m Brazilian, but I’m white! Who would’ve thought!"

And it never worked.

Not because the jokes were “bad,” but because they weren’t me. They weren’t rooted in my real personality, my real perspective, or what actually makes me funny. And the audience? They could feel that. They could feel the disconnection.

Then, two years ago, something shifted.

I got on stage and told one single story. The man with the milk bag. No forced one-liners. No pandering. No “general audience” nonsense. Just me, telling a story the way my brain naturally tells stories.

And I killed.

People still remember that set. It was the moment I realized, Wait. Maybe they were wrong. Maybe I didn’t need to force myself into a structure that wasn’t mine. Maybe my professors and fellow comedians weren’t handing down comedy law—they were just projecting their own experiences onto me.

And speaking of projection.

The Lie That Comedians Can’t Be Pretty

Another thing I was told? That if I wanted to be taken seriously, I couldn’t be pretty.

If I looked too good on stage, it would be distracting. People wouldn’t focus on my jokes. They wouldn’t think I was funny.

So for five years, I:

Never recorded my sets.

Never posted clips online.

Never dressed up for shows.

Because I thought I had to dull myself down to be taken seriously.

At first, I resented comedians for making me feel this way. But then I learned about autism and thought—wait. What if… JUST MAYBE… these comedians were just projecting?

And then Matt Rife blew up.

And suddenly, it all clicked.

Of course comedians believe you have to pick between “funny” or “pretty.” For most of them, being funny is the only choice they’ve ever had.

It’s not a rule. It’s just all they’ve ever known.

I realized this wasn’t about gatekeeping. It wasn’t some big industry secret. It was just… their lived experience. The reason Matt Rife blew up was because a hot comedian is a phenomenon. We get hot actors every other day. But hot stand-ups? That’s still rare.

So when other comedians told me, “You have to pick one,” what they really meant was “I’ve never seen a comedian successfully do both.”

Which is not my problem.

So if I had to pick between being pretty or funny?

I’d pick pretty.

Because pretty pays.

Coming Full Circle: Trusting My Instincts Over “Rules”

For years, I let other people’s opinions dictate my entire career. I let other comedians tell me who I should be, what I should joke about, and how I should present myself.

But now? I finally know better.

Every time someone tries to enforce some “rule” onto me, I remind myself:

They cannot enforce that upon me.

I am allowed to reject it.

I will keep doing what I’m doing.

Because I finally know who I am. And I’m not about to change that for anyone.

III. The Second C of Brand Positioning: Competition & Why It Took Me Years to Realize I Had None

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from this Harvard module, it’s that most brands—and most people, for that matter—spend way too much time comparing themselves to others.

Every business class, every case study, every entrepreneur will tell you that you need to analyze your competition. You need to know who else is out there, what they’re doing, what their strengths are, and how to differentiate yourself. It makes sense, right? But what if your biggest strength is the fact that you actually don’t have real competition?

That’s something OOFOS is struggling with in this module. They’re trying to decide if they should fight for space in the already crowded “comfort” shoe market, or if they should double down on their “recovery” niche—even though most people don’t know what “recovery footwear” even means.

And this? This is where I see myself. Because for years, I was stuck trying to fit into the “stand-up comedy” category when I was actually building something completely different.

Who Was I Competing With? Nobody. And That Was the Problem.

For years, I thought my competition was other comedians.

I watched how they structured their jokes.

I studied what was working for them.

I tried to figure out how to compete with their styles.

And I failed. Miserably.

Because what I didn’t realize was that I was never actually competing with them. I was doing something entirely different, but instead of owning that difference, I kept trying to be like everyone else.

My natural style? It was storytelling-based. It was longform. It didn’t fit the traditional stand-up mold, and instead of leaning into that uniqueness, I tried to force myself into the structure of other comics.

That was my biggest mistake.

Learning From OOFOS: When You’re Different, Own It.

The reason OOFOS is struggling in this module is the same reason I struggled for so long.

They don’t fit into a traditional category.

They’re not just another shoe brand. If they try to compete with Nike, Adidas, or Crocs on “comfort,” they’ll lose. But if they own their niche as the only true recovery footwear brand, they have no direct competition.

And that’s a good thing.

That’s exactly where I was as a comedian. I was never meant to be a one-liner comic or a tight five kind of comedian. My style was closer to Mike Birbiglia or Hannah Gadsby—comedians who tell full, immersive stories. The difference was that I didn’t realize I was allowed to do that.

I thought I had to fit into the existing mold or I wasn’t a “real” comedian.

But what I should have done—what I’ve finally learned to do now—is own what makes me different.

Because the best way to stand out isn’t to compete harder.

It’s to play a different game entirely.

V. The Pretty vs. Funny Dilemma: Why I Stopped Listening to Bro Comedians

Let’s talk about another thing I wasted way too much time worrying about:

👀 “If you’re too pretty, people won’t take your comedy seriously.”

For years, I let other comedians convince me that I had to pick one lane:

1️⃣ Be funny. 2️⃣ Be pretty.

But never both.

And like a fool, I believed them.

For the first five years of my career, I never posted clips online because I looked ugly on stage. I avoided recording my sets. I dressed down for shows. I genuinely thought that if I looked too “put together,” the audience wouldn’t find me funny.

At first, I resented the people who told me this.

Then, I learned I was autistic.

And I realized—maybe, JUST MAYBE, the comedians who told me this weren’t actually handing down comedy wisdom.

Maybe they were just… projecting?

The Matt Rife Epiphany: It Was Never About Me.

The moment I knew I’d been scammed was when Matt Rife blew up.

Suddenly, every male comedian I knew was frothing at the mouth about how this “hot guy” was selling out shows. They acted like he was some freak of nature because… he was hot and funny???

And that’s when it hit me.

Of course comedians thought you had to pick between being pretty and funny. Because for most of them, being funny was their only choice.

They weren’t gatekeeping beauty. They weren’t consciously trying to keep me down. They just couldn’t fathom a world where someone could successfully be both.

So when they told me, “People won’t take you seriously if you’re hot,” what they really meant was:

🗣️ “I have never personally witnessed a hot comedian be taken seriously, therefore I assume it is impossible.”

That’s not a fact. That’s just their own lived experience.

Pretty Pays. And I Am Done Pretending It Doesn’t.

So if I had to pick between being funny or pretty?

I’d pick pretty.

Because pretty pays.

And I refuse to keep dulling myself down for the comfort of other comedians when my actual audience couldn’t care less.

My audience? They’re not sitting there taking notes on whether my eyeliner is distracting. They just want to laugh and connect with a performer who is bringing something real to the stage.

And that’s what I plan to do.

IV. Own Your Category & Stop Listening to People Who Can’t See Your Vision

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from both this module and the last decade of my life, it’s this:

👉 If you’re different, own it. 👉 If people don’t get it, they’re not your audience. 👉 If someone tells you what you “can’t” do, question why they think that.

Most of the “rules” I followed were never actually rules.

I didn’t have to fit into traditional stand-up.

I didn’t have to choose between funny or pretty.

I didn’t have to listen to comedians who were just projecting their own limitations onto me.

And neither do you.

OOFOS is in the same boat right now. If they play by the existing rules, they’ll fail. If they try to compete directly with Nike, they’ll lose.

But if they double down on their real, unique edge?

They’ll own their own lane—one that no one else can touch.

That’s exactly what I’m doing now.

And I’ve never felt more confident about it.

V. The AudHD Experience: How Autism & ADHD Shaped My Journey Without Me Realizing It

Looking back, so much of my struggle to find my voice in comedy wasn’t just about bad advice or industry expectations. It was about how my brain is wired.

For the longest time, I couldn’t understand why I took other people’s opinions so seriously. A comedian would casually say, “Oh, you can’t do that in stand-up,” and I’d take it as a literal rule. A professor would tell me, “This isn’t stand-up, it’s storytelling,” and I’d decide my entire comedic identity was wrong. Someone would mention, “People don’t find hot comedians funny,” and I’d spend years actively trying to look worse to be taken seriously.

And I never questioned it. Because my autistic brain heard those statements and assumed they were laws rather than just… opinions.

Autism & The Curse of Taking Everything Literally

One of the biggest struggles I’ve had with autism is that I tend to default to authority. Not because I’m obedient or blindly trusting, but because I assume that if someone says something confidently, it must be true. I don’t have that natural skepticism that some people seem to be born with. When I was younger, I had no concept of subjective opinions. If a teacher told me, “This is how things are done,” I just… believed them. If someone older or more experienced in comedy said, “That won’t work,” I assumed they knew better.

I never stopped to think, “Wait… is this just their personal experience?” Instead, I let every passing comment completely rewire my brain. I erased parts of my identity because I thought I had to.

ADHD & The Curse of Immediate Identity Crises

Then you throw in ADHD, and suddenly I have no internal compass at all. One of the most frustrating parts of being AudHD is how easy it is for me to abandon my own instincts. I get hyper-fixated on doing things “right.” I seek external validation to confirm I’m on the right path. I struggle to hold onto my own sense of self when someone confidently tells me I should be doing things differently.

For years, that meant every time someone critiqued my comedy, I took it as a sign to overhaul everything. I was like a boat without an anchor. Every new wave of advice sent me in a different direction. But the problem with that? You can’t build something real if you keep scrapping everything and starting over. That’s what I spent my first three years in comedy doing. I wasn’t growing—I was erasing. I wasn’t refining my voice—I was losing it. And I had no idea it was because of how my brain naturally processes information.

The Moment I Realized I Didn’t Have to Listen Anymore

Everything changed for me two years ago. I was tired of trying to fit into some perfect mold. I had spent years writing jokes that didn’t feel like me. I was forcing myself to play by rules that were never mine to follow.

One night, I finally said, screw it. I went on stage and told one long story instead of forcing myself to fit a traditional joke structure. It was the Man with the Milk Bag story.

I killed it. People loved it. And the best part? I finally felt like myself.

For the first time in years, I wasn’t performing the version of comedy I thought I was supposed to do. I was just… doing my comedy.

What I’ve Learned About AudHD & Creativity

Now that I understand how my brain works, I approach things completely differently. I don’t take advice as law. I take it as input, but I decide what actually works for me. I trust my instincts. If something feels right, I go with it—even if it doesn’t fit the traditional mold. I remind myself that most rules aren’t real. They’re just things people made up based on their own experiences.

Comedy isn’t a one-size-fits-all industry. There’s no single way to be a comedian. And I wasted so much time trying to be something I wasn’t, just because I didn’t realize I had the power to choose.

VI. The Takeaway: Knowing Yourself is the Ultimate Competitive Advantage

At the end of the day, the biggest lesson I took from this module wasn’t about brand positioning—it was about personal positioning. If you’re constantly comparing yourself to others, trying to fit into their boxes, you’ll never find your own space.

OOFOS is struggling because they’re trying to decide if they should fight for space in the comfort shoe category, or own their uniqueness as the only real recovery footwear brand.

For years, I had the same struggle. I could either try to fit into stand-up’s traditional mold, or own the fact that I’m doing something different.

And once I finally chose the second option? Everything changed.

I stopped listening to people who didn’t see my vision. I started creating in a way that actually felt natural to me. I realized that being different isn’t a weakness—it’s my biggest advantage.

So if you’re out there trying to build something—whether it’s a brand, a career, or an audience—stop looking at what everyone else is doing. Look at what you’re doing. Look at what makes you different.

And lean into it.

VII. TL;DR: The Rules Were Never Real—And Neither is Your Competition

Aaaand that was the post!! You've made it to the end!! Let's recap:

OOFOS is struggling to define itself in a crowded comfort shoe market, but their biggest advantage is that they aren’t just another comfort brand. They’re a recovery brand—something no one else is doing.

For years, I struggled with the same thing. I tried to fit into the mold of what a “real” comedian should be instead of owning what made me unique.

My AudHD brain made me take advice too literally, constantly erasing myself instead of refining my voice.

Once I realized the rules were never real, everything changed.

The biggest takeaway? Knowing yourself is the ultimate competitive advantage. Your uniqueness isn’t a flaw—it’s your brand.

Thanks for reading!! I hope this lesson was as life-changing for you as it was for me!! See you in the next one. Tchau, tchau!!

[rakha847-blog]

7 Product Marketing Strategy Tips for Maximum Impact

Launching a product is one thing—making sure it thrives in the market is another. A strong product marketing strategy ensures your offering not only reaches the right audience but also resonates with them.

Here are seven essential tips to level up your product marketing game:

1️⃣ Know Your Ideal Customer – Deeply understand their pain points, motivations, and buying behavior. Tailor your messaging accordingly.

2️⃣ Craft a Clear Value Proposition – Why should customers choose your product? Communicate its unique value in a way that’s simple, compelling, and customer-focused.

3️⃣ Align with Sales & Customer Success – A winning strategy involves cross-functional collaboration. Ensure sales and customer support teams understand and convey your product’s benefits effectively.

4️⃣ Leverage Storytelling – People connect with stories, not just features. Use narratives that highlight how your product solves real-world problems.

5️⃣ Optimize Your Go-To-Market (GTM) Plan – Define the right channels, pricing, and positioning to maximize reach and conversions.

6️⃣ Harness Social Proof & Case Studies – User reviews, testimonials, and success stories build trust and credibility—key factors in purchase decisions.

7️⃣ Track, Test & Iterate – Monitor key performance metrics, gather customer feedback, and continuously refine your messaging and strategy to stay relevant.

🔹 Bonus Tip: The best product marketing strategies evolve with your customers' needs. Stay agile and always listen to your market!

What’s your go-to product marketing strategy? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 👇

[webnameseller]

The Price You’re Afraid to Drop Might Be the One Holding You Back

If your ask is based on ego, not interest — it's not a listing. It’s a stall.

[jaroeducations]

What Are the 4 Steps in Strategic Brand Management?

Strategic brand management is the process of creating, assessing, and maintaining brand presence, brand equity, and brand awareness to increase revenue and achieve long-term corporate goals. 

Read More

[juaniitaalopezz]

ICYMI: Professional Business Consulting for eCommerce Success: Strategies and Solutions https://kamyarshah.com/professional-business-consulting-for-ecommerce-success-strategies-and-solutions/

[widihefram]

Menggunakan WhatsApp Blast untuk Memperkuat Posisi Merek Anda di Pasar

Dalam dunia bisnis yang semakin kompetitif, memperkuat posisi merek Anda di pasar adalah kunci untuk bertahan dan berkembang. Salah satu strategi yang efektif dalam mencapai tujuan ini adalah melalui WhatsApp Blast. Layanan ini memungkinkan Anda untuk mengirim pesan massal kepada pelanggan dan prospek dengan cepat dan efisien. Artikel ini akan membahas bagaimana menggunakan WhatsApp Blast untuk memperkuat posisi merek Anda di pasar serta memberikan tips praktis untuk menjalankan kampanye yang sukses.

Mengapa WhatsApp Blast Efektif untuk Pemasaran?

Jangkauan Global: WhatsApp memiliki lebih dari dua miliar pengguna aktif di seluruh dunia, menjadikannya platform yang sempurna untuk menjangkau audiens yang luas.

Pesan Instan: Pesan yang dikirim melalui WhatsApp umumnya dibuka dalam hitungan menit, memastikan bahwa informasi Anda sampai kepada pelanggan dengan cepat.

Interaksi Personal: Dengan fitur personalisasi, Anda dapat mengirim pesan yang relevan dan spesifik kepada setiap segmen audiens, meningkatkan keterlibatan dan loyalitas.

Efisiensi Biaya: Dibandingkan dengan media pemasaran tradisional, WhatsApp Blast menawarkan solusi yang lebih hemat biaya dengan hasil yang signifikan.

Langkah-Langkah Menggunakan WhatsApp Blast untuk Memperkuat Merek Anda

1. Bangun Database Pelanggan yang Solid

Memiliki database pelanggan yang lengkap dan akurat adalah langkah pertama yang penting. Pastikan Anda mendapatkan izin dari setiap kontak untuk mengirim pesan melalui WhatsApp guna mematuhi peraturan privasi.

2. Pilih Layanan WhatsApp Blast yang Tepat

Gunakan layanan seperti whapp.id yang menyediakan fitur-fitur canggih seperti analitik pesan, segmentasi audiens, dan kemampuan pengiriman pesan massal yang aman dan andal.

3. Buat Pesan yang Relevan dan Menarik

Pesan Anda harus informatif dan mengundang tindakan. Gunakan bahasa yang sederhana, tambahkan elemen visual, dan jangan lupa untuk menyertakan tautan yang mengarah ke website atau landing page Anda.

4. Segmentasikan Audiens Anda

Segmentasi adalah kunci untuk kampanye yang efektif. Dengan membagi audiens berdasarkan demografi atau perilaku, Anda dapat mengirim pesan yang lebih relevan dan sesuai kebutuhan mereka.

5. Uji Coba Pesan Anda

Sebelum meluncurkan kampanye secara luas, lakukan uji coba pada kelompok kecil untuk melihat respons mereka. Gunakan hasil ini untuk menyempurnakan pesan Anda.

6. Jadwalkan Pengiriman Pesan

Jadwalkan pengiriman pesan Anda pada waktu-waktu tertentu yang memiliki kemungkinan tinggi untuk dibuka oleh penerima. Misalnya, mengirim pesan di pagi hari atau saat istirahat makan siang.

Tips Meningkatkan Efektivitas WhatsApp Blast

1. Konsistensi Brand

Pastikan semua pesan yang Anda kirim mencerminkan identitas merek Anda, baik dari segi tone of voice, logo, maupun warna merek.

2. Berikan Konten Bernilai

Berikan informasi yang bermanfaat atau tawaran eksklusif kepada pelanggan Anda untuk meningkatkan loyalitas mereka terhadap merek Anda.

3. Gunakan Media Visual

Gambar, video, dan infografis dapat membuat pesan Anda lebih menarik dan mudah dipahami.

4. Libatkan Audiens Anda

Ajak pelanggan untuk berinteraksi dengan pesan Anda, misalnya dengan mengklik tautan, menjawab pertanyaan, atau berbagi pesan dengan teman-teman mereka.

5. Pantau Kinerja Kampanye

Gunakan alat analitik untuk memantau kinerja kampanye Anda. Lakukan evaluasi berkala untuk mengetahui apa yang berhasil dan apa yang perlu ditingkatkan.

Kesimpulan

WhatsApp Blast adalah alat yang sangat efektif untuk memperkuat posisi merek Anda di pasar. Dengan strategi yang tepat dan penggunaan yang bijak, Anda dapat meningkatkan kesadaran merek, keterlibatan pelanggan, dan pada akhirnya, penjualan. Pastikan untuk selalu mematuhi kebijakan privasi dan memberikan nilai tambah kepada pelanggan Anda.

Untuk solusi WhatsApp Blast terpercaya, kunjungi whapp.id dan mulai perkuat merek Anda hari ini.