The Mars Method: 5 Key Strategies Entrepreneurs Can Adopt from Bruno Mars’s Business Empire
Bruno Mars has become one of the most successful pop stars and entrepreneurs of the 21st century. From his chart-topping music to his diverse business ventures, Mars has built an impressive empire by focusing on his passions.
But beyond the glitz and glamour, Mars and his team have utilized smart business strategies to achieve longevity in a rapidly evolving industry. Aspiring entrepreneurs can learn valuable lessons from Mars’s unique approach.
Here are 5 key strategies from Bruno Mars’s playbook that entrepreneurs can adopt:
1. Master Your Craft
Bruno Mars’s rise to fame rested on a foundation of exceptional skill and work ethic. As a child, Mars relentlessly practiced music and performance, appearing in his family’s shows from age 2.
After high school, Mars moved to Los Angeles to pursue music professionally. He sang hooks for other artists and produced songs before landing his own record deal. Even after achieving mainstream success, Mars continued honing his vocals, songwriting, production, and live performances.
Like Mars, entrepreneurs should devote time to mastering their craft, service, or product. Develop expertise in your chosen field through hands-on experience, education, and experimentation. Build a solid business on your unique strengths.
2. Collaborate with Complementary Talent
Though skilled, Bruno Mars understood the power of collaboration. He co-founded the production team The Smeezingtons with experienced producers and songwriters Philip Lawrence and Ari Levine.
Together, they crafted hits for major artists. Mars later collaborated with powerhouses like Diplo and Mark Ronson to fuse genres and reach new audiences. These partnerships allowed Mars to expand his skills and fanbase.
Successful entrepreneurs identify holes in their expertise and build partnerships to fill them. Surround yourself with people whose strengths complement yours. Seek mentors, hire experienced staff, and collaborate with those who can broaden your perspective.
3. Understand Your Target Audience Deeply
Bruno Mars and his team have an uncanny ability to craft songs and experiences that resonate with wide audiences. Rather than chasing trends, they dig deeper to uncover what draws people to music on an emotional level.
Mars pulls from diverse influences – from doo-wop to funk and R&B. By blending vintage styles with modern pop, he achieves a sound that feels both familiar and fresh. His concerts create joyful experiences that forge an intimate connection with fans.
To build an effective business, you must know your target audience inside and out. Conduct in-depth market research to understand your ideal customers’ needs, values, frustrations, and aspirations. Use those insights to develop products and messaging that truly speak to them.
4. Build a Distinct Brand Identity
With his retro style and showmanship, Bruno Mars developed a unique public image that sets him apart in the music industry. His fashion and live performances evoke James Brown, Elvis Presley, and other classic entertainers.
But Mars puts his own twist on those influences to create an identity that feels authentic and new. Even his name itself – Bruno Mars – is memorable and distinctive.
Entrepreneurs should craft their own recognizable brand identity. Determine the key attributes you want associated with your business – then express those consistently through your logo, voice, visuals, values, and customer experience. A stand-out brand builds loyalty and helps you stand out.
5. Diversify Your Business
While music is Mars’s passion, he understood the benefits of diversification. Mars has expanded into related business ventures that leverage his core strengths.
For instance, Mars owns Selvarey Rum, a high-end rum brand that reflects his Hawaiian roots and love of music. He also has lucrative deals with major brands like Pepsi and Pandora Jewelry. Mars partnered with Disney for a Hawaiian-set animated musical film.
Diversifying allows Mars to tap new revenue streams while expanding his influence. Though not every venture may be a smash hit, he mitigates risk by exploring various projects.
Like Mars, entrepreneurs should look for opportunities to branch out, especially into areas aligned with your capabilities. Diversify your products, services, partnerships, and distribution channels. Multiple income streams can stabilize your finances while exposing you to new markets.
Key Takeaways: Adopting Mars’s Methods
Bruno Mars’s blend of talent and business savvy provides many lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. By mastering your craft, collaborating with others, understanding your audience, building a strong brand, and diversifying your efforts, you can set up your own venture for success.
Of course, Mars’s precise formula isn’t easily replicated – his magic touch stems from his unique passions and creativity. But you can apply his key strategies using your own vision. With dedication, smarts, and a bit of star power, you can build the next great entrepreneurial empire.
