Be a copycat
Yes. I said be a copycat. I know that sounds so strange, especially in today's world. What does that mean?
Does it mean that I need to go to copy somebody literally, word for word? No, but there was a thing I learned in my corporate days that was why reinvent the wheel. Why not be able to learn and get inspired from other people? The only way to grow is going to be from learning from others. That's the only way we grow. Of course, we have our own experiences and we can build on them. That definitely is important. But the more we learn from others, the more we are open to listening to others' ideas to see what they're doing, right?
What is making them a competition?
What is making them more successful?
What techniques they are using to make sure the blueprint they have created becomes our own?
I always wanted to know what other companies were doing in training. What were the latest methodologies being adapted and the trends in the market? You need to be aware of what your competition is doing if you need to compete. We would definitely have crossed the next level of aiming for success when we appreciate people for what they are, what they stand for and most of all taking what they have done.
DON'T JUST DO WHAT THEY DO, do it YOUR WAY.
Learn to put your own spin on it. That is what I mean by being a copycat. I've always found it strange that when there are so many procedures and techniques already in place, I often see people starting from scratch, feeling stuck, not getting ideas. Well, if you learn from others you might be able to do it better.
Eg- the guy who invented Uber said that he didn't have his car one day and wondered how easy it would be to have an app with someone just to pick him up. So he didn't really come up with a new idea. We did already have taxis but what he did do was, he made it more convenient. We could track the car, see the number. That is innovation. Take an existing idea and make it your own.
HOW CAN YOU TRACK YOUR COMPETITION
What are their social media posts about?
How are they pricing their products and services?
Check their customer service review, what are the ratings like and feedback comments?
What is the product and what are the strengths and things that can be improved?
What are they doing to advertise and promote their products?
