Common Characteristics of Businesses That Thrive...

Lately, I have been thinking about businesses that have had a positive effect on my life. These businesses are thriving. It's worth noting the characteristics they have that enable them to thrive in an ever-changing marketplace.

I've never spent $150.00 for a pair of shoes ... until recently. And I couldn't be happier about it. My wife and I have gotten into running and being more active. It's amazing that I can do this with my fused ankle. I need good shoes and the advice of an expert to determine what shoe is best for my situation. For help I turned to our local running store, Runners Lane. They take the time to educate their customers. They also are supporters and participants of many events in our community. Their business thrives because they build relationships while meeting the needs of their customers and are engaged in the community.

Trader Joes is another local business that impresses me. It's a regional boutique type market where "crew" members wear Hawaiian shirts, reinforcing their branding position that they are "traders" on the culinary seas, searching the world over for cool items to bring home to customers. They think grocery shopping should be fun, not a chore and the buying experience defies the typical shopping experience.

I was in search recently for protein powder at Trader Joes, when one of their "crew" members noticed my bewilderment at the landscape of options. He spent quite a bit of time educating me on the products and other supplements commonly used by active people. I had never heard of "casein protein" and how it differs from "whey protein." It's confusing, as noted in this article for those who may be interested. A business that thrives knows their product line and cares enough to help their customers find the products that best meet their needs.