The Zigging Thing

John Duggan
Strategic Things
Published in
2 min readSep 21, 2023

“Zigging when others are Zagging” is possibly the most effective way to stand out and capture attention in a crowded market.

Here’s a bit more detail on this concept:

Differentiation: When most companies are following similar marketing strategies or trends, deliberately choosing to do something different can help your business stand out. It’s a way to create a unique selling proposition (USP) that sets you apart from the competition.

Attention-Grabbing: Doing the unexpected or unconventional can capture people’s attention. If everyone in your industry is taking a similar approach, a different angle can intrigue and engage potential customers.

Memorable: Unconventional strategies are more likely to be memorable. People remember things that are out of the ordinary, which can lead to stronger brand recall and word-of-mouth marketing.

Disruption: Challenging the status quo can lead to industry disruption. If you can offer a new way of thinking or a solution that breaks away from the norm, you might open up new opportunities and markets.

Innovation: Going against the grain often requires creativity and innovation. It forces you to think outside the box and come up with fresh ideas that others haven’t explored yet.

Risk and Reward: While there can be potential rewards in standing out, there’s also a level of risk involved. Not all unconventional strategies will resonate positively with your audience. It’s important to understand your audience well and be prepared for different reactions.

Cultural Relevance: Sometimes, zigging when others zagging involves tapping into current cultural trends or issues. If your approach aligns with what’s resonating with society at a particular time, it can create strong connections with your target audience.

Agility: Being willing to zig when others zag can demonstrate your company’s agility and adaptability. This can be particularly useful in fast-changing industries or during times of significant change.

Thought Leadership: Taking a different approach can position your company as a thought leader in your industry. It shows that you’re willing to challenge conventional wisdom and think critically about your strategies.

Targeted Approach: While being different can be impactful, it’s essential to ensure that your approach is still relevant to your target audience. The goal is to capture attention and create a positive impact, not to confuse or alienate potential customers.

Overall, zigging when others zagging can be a powerful marketing strategy if executed thoughtfully and strategically. It requires a deep understanding of your market, your audience, and your brand identity to ensure that your unconventional approach aligns with your long-term goals and values.

--

--

John Duggan
Strategic Things

Seasoned professional with a proven track record in creative strategy, communications, brand storytelling, brand building, and C-level mentoring.