SmallBusinessNewz

Though it may be tempting at times, it is probably in your best interest as a small business owner or representative, not to criticize the efforts of you competitors. This is a topic recently explored by Loic Le Meur on his blog, and in the following video.

Loic talks about how competition is a good thing and that competitors can learn from each other by sharing ideas. He says that you of course don't want to share everything but when competitors work together, there are often opportunities that can arise. He writes:

Meet them. Have lunch. Exchange information. Both of you will learn. Don't reveal all your plans, but some sharing is really good.

You could work with them to grow the space. I had launched with competitors in 96 the French Chapter of the Internet Advertising Bureau. We defined format standards for banner ads, put together a book and we all got more business from sharing and working together.

Loic makes some good points. I'd encourage you to watch the video and read his post, particularly if you're thinking about going the Subway route of marketing. What are your thoughts on the subject?