"Be unique" Shark Tank's Lori Greiner share tips to "survive and thrive"

Lori Greiner, the "Queen of QVC" and a renowned Shark Tank investor, knows that standing out isn't just a choice in entrepreneurship—it's a necessity for survival. On a crisp February morning in 2025, she shared an Instagram post that would inspire small businesses worldwide.

"To survive and thrive, be unique. What makes you unique and different? The more unique and different you are, the more needed you are."

These statements, which come directly from the lips of a business tycoon who has introduced more than 500 goods and is the owner of 120 patents, are not only inspirational quotes; they are a recipe for success.

For those who don't know, Lori Greiner is more than simply a TV personality. She became a self-made millionaire after starting her business career in her Chicago home as a jewelry organizer and going on to become a well-known Shark Tank investor.

Since Shark Tank's debut in 2009, the program has served as a springboard for innumerable businesspeople, with Greiner gaining recognition for her astute business acumen and her ability to see opportunities.

What are Lori Greiner’s tips to survive and thrive?

In her recent Instagram reel, Lori Greiner didn't just offer advice—she provided a strategic roadmap for small businesses looking to make their mark. Her tips are more than just suggestions; they're insights distilled from years of entrepreneurial experience.

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Embrace Your Uniqueness

Being different is the key to success. Being different is not just a benefit, but also a need in a market full of identical goods and services. Lori Greiner stresses that companies need to determine and accentuate their unique selling points.

Uniqueness draws attention and generates demand, whether it is through an inventive product, a unique service strategy, or an engaging brand narrative.

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Know Your Market Inside Out

Understanding your target audience is crucial. As Greiner puts it:

"Know your market. Make sure you know who you're selling to so that you know how to sell them properly and you're giving them what they want."

This means deep research. Who are your customers? What do they need? What problems can you solve for them? The more precisely you can answer these questions, the more effectively you can tailor your offerings.

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Put a Human Face to Your Brand

"Put a face to your brand. Make yourself your brand," Greiner advises.

In an age of digital interactions, personal connection matters more than ever. Customers don't just buy products; they buy stories, personalities, and experiences.

By showing the human side of your business, you create trust. People connect with people, not faceless corporations. Share your journey, your challenges, your victories—make your brand relatable.

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Customer Service is Everything

Greiner's position is clear:

"Be super service-oriented and caring. Customer service is everything."

She believes that while gaining a client takes time, losing one may happen quickly.

Resolving issues is only one aspect of providing outstanding customer service. It all comes down to providing experiences that make clients feel appreciated, understood, and motivated to come back. It's about developing relationships and going beyond commerce.

Know the Competition, But Stay True to Your Vision

"Be aware of the competition but do your own thing," Greiner recommends.

Watching competitors can provide valuable market insights, but copying them is a recipe for mediocrity.

Your unique vision is your greatest asset. Learn from others, but don't lose sight of what makes your business special. Innovation comes from staying true to your original concept while adapting to market needs.

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Lori Greiner’s clear message

Lori Greiner's success isn't just about giving advice—it's about living it. From her first invention (a jewelry organizer that sold 300,000 units in a short time) to her investments on Shark Tank, she embodies the principles she preaches.

Her message is clear: In business, being unique isn't a luxury. It's a strategy for survival. For small businesses navigating a competitive landscape, her tips aren't just suggestions—they're a lifeline.

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Watch Shark Tank Fridays at 8 PM ET on ABC, or stream episodes anytime on Hulu.