My First Million
The best business ideas come from noticing what's working and doing it better, faster, or for a different audience.
“They only remember you're weird.”
What It Means
Customers give zero credit for meeting expectations but remember and share any unusual or unexpected experiences
Why It Matters
Word-of-mouth marketing requires something worth talking about - competent execution of standard service isn't memorable
When It's True
When building brand awareness, when word-of-mouth is important, when competing in commoditized markets
When It's Risky
When weird elements distract from core value proposition, when target audience values conformity, when weird becomes gimmicky
How to Apply
Design specific moments intended to be memorable and shareable
Focus resources on creating unusual experiences rather than perfecting standard ones
Ensure weird elements genuinely delight rather than just surprise
Make weird elements consistent with brand values and customer needs
Example Scenario
“Accounting firm sends clients handwritten thank-you notes with local coffee shop gift cards after tax season, generating referrals because clients remember the personal touch rather than the competent tax preparation”