Let’s be honest: big brands can seem like they have it all figured out, right? You look at Amazon or Nike, and it feels like they have some secret recipe for success that’s out of reach for smaller businesses. But here’s the thing—those brands weren’t always giants. They grew over time, and believe it or not, a lot of their “secrets” are strategies that you can apply, no matter the size of your business. So, if you’ve ever wondered what they’re doing behind the scenes, We’re here to share insider tips you can start using today to grow your brand.

Obsess Your Customer Experience

You’ve probably heard this one before the customer is king. But for brands like Apple and Disney, it’s more than a catchy phrase—it’s their entire strategy. These companies are relentless about making sure every interaction their customers have is smooth, memorable, and, most importantly, personal. Think about how good it feels to walk into an Apple store and get help from someone who knows exactly how to fix your problem without making you feel clueless. That’s not by accident.

For your business, it doesn’t have to be complicated. Maybe it’s responding faster to emails, offering a personalized thank-you note with every purchase, or simply being available when your customers need you. Even if you’re a small team, going the extra mile will make people remember you and come back.

Harness Data, Not Just Instincts

Sure, gut instinct is important, but big brands don’t rely on guesswork. They rely on data. Take Netflix, for example. They don’t just recommend shows based on what they think you’ll like—they use data from your viewing habits to predict what you’ll binge next. Facebook and Google? Same thing. They’ve built entire empires by using customer data to show you exactly what you’re interested in.

For small businesses, the idea of using data might sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start small. Look at your website analytics, track what posts perform best on social media, or gather customer feedback. Over time, these insights will help you refine your strategies and focus on what works instead of wasting time and money on things that don’t.

Consistent Innovation and Flexibility

Think of Tesla—sure, they revolutionized the car industry with electric vehicles, but they didn’t stop there. They’re constantly innovating and pushing forward with things like self-driving technology. It’s what keeps them relevant and always one step ahead of the competition.

For your business, innovation doesn’t have to mean inventing something groundbreaking. It could be introducing a new service, finding creative ways to use technology, or even upgrading your store’s display with a creative LED screen to grab attention. The key is to be flexible. Pay attention to what’s changing in your industry and be willing to adapt, even if it means taking a few risks. The brands that stay stuck in their ways are the ones that eventually get left behind.

Master the Art of Collaboration

You don’t have to go it alone. Big brands know this well. Look at Starbucks—they’ve teamed up with Spotify to create in-store playlists or Nike’s collaborations with celebrities to launch limited-edition products. These partnerships allow them to tap into new audiences and create buzz that they couldn’t achieve alone.

As a small business, collaboration can be one of your most powerful tools. Think about partnering with another brand that complements yours. You could co-host events, run a joint promotion, or even create a special product together. This can expand your reach and introduce your business to a whole new group of potential customers who might not have found you otherwise.

So feel free to try some of the best-kept secrets of big brands that you can start using in your own business. They’re for anyone who’s ready to put in the work and think creatively about how to grow their business. Success might not happen overnight, but with these tips, you’re well on your way!