Market gaps are voids masquerading as opportunities. A market gap refers to a specific area of the market that is currently unserved by existing enterprises.
Market gaps may be fantastic sources of inspiration for your next big idea, whether you're establishing a new business or looking for ways to expand an already existing one.
Every successful company has filled a market void in some way to make its name. The precise demands and tastes of each market's participants can be tweaked or divided further.
But how to recognize the right market gaps to take advantage of? We spoke to Jonathan Gerow, an industry-leading entrepreneur, as he shared his insights on identifying and leveraging market gaps to carve out your unique identity.
Jonathan Gerow is the Founder of Gerow Hair Ink and a world-celebrated figure in the scalp micropigmentation industry. He has received numerous accolades and has carved out a niche for himself in the hair restoration field.
Scalp micropigmentation was not widely recognized or considered as a viable alternative to the existing mainstream hair restoration options before Gerow made it popular. In partnership with like-minded individuals, he set out to fill this need in the market and build his own identity in the industry.
Jonathan Gerow and his business partner Erik Roberto are responsible for having conducted SMP for several public figures such as Jose Reyes, Kenny Smith, Alajaza, Brea Frank, Helpin Restituyo (El Profe), Funk Master Flex, Tyhem Commodore "mr commodore" Deron Williams, Ceky Viciny, Erik Sermon, DJ CLUE and several others.
According to Jonathan Gerow, the first step in spotting a market gap is to examine your strengths and interests. "Every industry has various opportunities, but you can only take advantage of the gaps that best suit your interests, talents, and expertise.
You can evaluate what is missing in your area of expertise if you have your finger on the pulse of current trends," he explains. Sometimes, opportunities arise as a result of market demands, customer feedback, or challenges.
Jonathan Gerow believes entrepreneurship is about bringing answers or solving specific unmet needs. "Paying attention to customer feedback, market trends, and challenges in any industry can lead to the discovery of previously unexplored market opportunities," he adds.
In a market that is continuously changing, Jonathan Gerow believes that you need to define your USP to stand out. With new technologies and laws being launched or altered on a daily basis in every sector, you must be on the lookout for feasible opportunities. Finding and capitalizing on these market gaps might open up previously untapped revenue streams.
Today's market may be very competitive, but potentially lucrative niches are everywhere. "Your big opportunity might be lying right where you are now; if you can't seize it, create it," concludes Jonathan Gerow.