Your Competitors Are a Bad Influence

It’s always a great idea to pay attention to what your competitors are up to, including their marketing – especially since you’re trying to win the same customers.  But all too often, companies become reactive, basing their own marketing on what their rivals are doing.

In 2019, try this.  Look closely at your prospects.  Now look at companies outside your industry who target that same audience.  What strategies are they using?  How do they differ from the way your own industry approaches the same audience?  What’s working for them?

Most of all, how can you adapt some of these ideas or tactics from other industries to create a new path forward in your own?  Doing so would instantly help your marketing and your message stand out from your competitors, and help you gain top of mind awareness.

Let’s get you started.  This evening, settle into your favorite chair with a laptop and beverage of choice, put your feet up and follow this simple three-step process to get the ball rolling:

1. Identify three industries who share your audience.

2. Identify the local, regional or national leaders in those industries.

3. Find out as much as you can about their marketing approaches:

    a. Visit their websites.

    b. Sign up for and read their emails.

    c. Dissect their advertising.

    d. Check out their social media.

You’ll end up with really good information – and at least a few ideas for bringing a fresh approach to your marketing for 2019.  Good luck!

(If you’ve enjoyed your Marketing Minute in 2018, we hope you’ll consider forwarding this to one marketer or business owner / leader who you believe might benefit from the insights we share throughout the year.  And Happy New Year!)