Underdog’s Rise
The Underdog Advantage — AC/DC Was Right, You Can Make It "All the Way to the Top"
Let's talk about a subject that might strike a chord with many of you — the Underdog Advantage. As AC/DC eloquently puts it, "It's a long way to the top if you wanna rock 'n' roll," but oh, what a journey it is.
The actual “Underdog Advantage”?
Recently, I read an article from Scott, and it inspired me. Remember when they said, "You're too inexperienced," and you thought, "Great, no bad habits to unlearn"? That's the spirit! Here's the deal:
"Too inexperienced?" — No bad habits to unlearn.
"Limited resources?" — Necessity breeds innovation.
"No one's done it that way before?" — Fantastic! That's why it might work now.
It's all about turning perceived weaknesses into natural strengths. Being underestimated can be your secret weapon whether you're a startup or an individual.
David and Goliath
We've all heard the tale of David and Goliath, but let's not forget the contemporary underdogs—think Figma in the design software game. Companies like this don't just climb to the top; they redefine the peak. When Belkins started, it was a small fish in a pond dominated by whales like Accenture. Five grueling but gratifying years later, we're leading the pack in B2B lead generation and appointment setting. It's not just me saying this; our clients’ testimonials speak volumes. How did we do it? Simple:
No other secret behind but relentless hard work, unwavering dedication, and a knack for doing things our way.
Doubt is the underdog's worst enemy. You might think you can't compete, but guess what? You can. There's always room for someone willing to rewrite the rules.
In industries like SalesTech and MarTech, it’s the underdogs who often bring true innovation to the table. They're the ones who question the status quo, flipping it on its head until people finally get it.
Be Unique, Be Niche
April Dunford nails it in her book; the best positioning is to be uniquely you. If you can solve a problem in a way that no one else can, you're golden.
But let's not sugarcoat it; being an underdog isn't all roses. You'll attract the attention of the giants, and not always in a good way. While the limelight can lead to incredible opportunities, it can also expose you to sabotage.
Beware of the Goliaths
Keep your guard up, but don't let that dissuade you from marching forward.
Will you always be The Underdog?
Sure, you might become a Goliath one day, but remember, even Goliaths can support other Davids. So when you get there, extend a hand. Help the next underdog rise, and you might just find yourself in a rewarding collaboration.
Underestimation is an advantage, an asset, a superpower. Wear it like armor, and it can never be used to hurt you.
Until next time, keep rocking and keep winning!
Best, Vlad
Interesting take here. I read a similar thought process in Jason Fried’s mini blog. https://world.hey.com/jason/we-stand-with-the-underdogs-7d487d64
Doubt is really an underdog killer. I’d also add lacking patience as a threat to most underdogs.