What is the safe-bold framework?

The SAFE-BOLD framework is a concept used in sales and marketing to balance risk and reward in messaging and positioning. SAFE messages are those that align with a customer's existing beliefs and perceptions. They are easy to accept but do not differentiate the seller from competitors. BOLD messages, on the other hand, challenge the customer's current thinking and offer a unique perspective. They are more risky because they can be met with resistance, but they also have the potential to differentiate the seller and create significant value. The SAFE-BOLD framework suggests that the most effective sales and marketing strategies balance SAFE and BOLD messages to both align with and challenge the customer's thinking.