Feb 13 - Day 19 Do you regard competition as a threat or a motivator?

What are your thoughts concerning competitors in your industry?

For years, I was one of those people who looked down on my (perceived) competitors, until I realized that they were actually more afraid of me than I was of them.

Then, I looked closer, and from a different perspective, and realized that my so-called competitors were not in competition with me at all. They are colleagues who I protect as much as I protect and empower all of my clients.

I protect attorneys from their friends, family, and neighbors who feel entitled to free legal services whenever they need them.

Some objections I get from prospective clients are along the lines of:

* My (insert family member) ________ is an attorney

* We have a friend who is a lawyer

* I know a lawyer

* My neighbor is an attorney

Every attorney has family, friends, and neighbors, many of whom take advantage of their expertise.

I now feel that part of my mission is to protect attorneys!

But in all seriousness, your perceived competitors are often people you could build relationships with. Not everyone wants your services, but they may want something your competitor has. Your job is to show the prospective client integrity, good ethical practices, and honesty. Let them know you are there to help them, regardless of who they do business with.

Never bash your competition. You never know when you may need them. They have services that are different from yours. Someday you may send a client their way and vice versa.

#entreprenuers #innovation #smallbusiness #ethical #integrity #honesty