Some competitors may be cold, hostile and unwilling to share information, but others in your field may be more than willing to share tips and tricks of the trade. In fact, if there's a work overload, some competitors will refer customers to one another.

There are several ways to connect with your competitors. One way is to attend local chapter meetings of trade associations for your industry. (This also can be a good way to meet business prospects; corporate workers in a position to hire independent contractors often attend such meetings.)

Another way is to become active in local or regional business groups that are not industry-specific. Chambers of Commerce, Toastmasters, Lions Club and regional business associations are examples. If your product or service is sold to local businesses, you are very likely to meet competitors (as well as sales prospects) at such meetings.

If networking with local competitors doesn't suit you, seminars at industry trade shows can be a source for supplier information, tips for operating more efficiently, and possibly competitive information.

More >> Know Your Competition

Comments