Comments on: How to reply to questions about your competitors?

By: Alina Popescu

Alina Popescu — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 15:44:38 +0000

I am omnipresent, apparently

By: Fyurien

Fyurien — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 21:26:12 +0000

Haha… found on you Mixx!! =)

By: Brad Shorr

Brad Shorr — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 15:50:08 +0000

Alina, This is my second Camry and while I like it, the quality has slipped from the 2003 model my daughter now drives. My new car needed a new set of tires after only 18,000 miles (!), and it's just not quite as well put together. Overall, still a magnificent value in my opinion. Toyota's service is fabulous. Brad Shorrs last blog post..My Best Post of 2008

By: Alina Popescu

Alina Popescu — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 08:39:34 +0000

Hi, Janelle, that’s a great question! I think you can tell who’s a customer and who isn’t after a while. I guess the questions would be different. A customer can ask about price, features, benefits, how to better use your solution, but they would never ask for advice on how to run a business, market a product or pricing. And if your prices are not a big secret, nor your features and benefits, if the competition mimics a customer, you can’t really do anything about it. but it won’t really damage you either.

do you have an example for us to discuss for things to be a bit clearer?

Brad, your example is great! It’s normal to get to know the competition’s flaws, but instead of picking on them, focus on what you do best. Are you happy with your Toyota, btw? I’ve heard it’s a great car and comes with great service.

By: Brad Shorr

Brad Shorr — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:10:38 +0000

Alina, Great points, as always. People often buy a product based on the relationship with the seller, not based on the features of the products. A little honesty can go a long way. Knowing the competition inside out helps, too. When I was trying to decide between an Accord and a Camry, the Toyota sales person said the Accord was a great car, but it didn't have as much headroom. It was the perfect thing to say, because he knew I was tall and it would be an issue. He pointed out an issue with a competitor, but in a way that helped me make a good decision. Brad Shorrs last blog post..Troublesome Words Explained by Bill Bryson

By: janelle

janelle — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 17:41:39 +0000

Great post, Alina. This article made me think of something else- what about potential "competitors" who call you and ask for advice on things? How do you identify whether or not they are a competitor of yours and then how would you address their question(s)? After all, you don't want to give away free advice- especially to someone who is then going to use it to their advantage... janelles last blog post..20 Fabulous Feeds for Your Blog