Friending the Competition

Last week, we gave you tips on how to scope out your competition by being a secret shopper. Taking an afternoon (or two) to do this can give you some great insight as to how you stack up against local competitors!

Another great way to stay on top of what’s happening in your industry (and more specifically – what’s happening with your competition) is to follow them on social media. Whether it be Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, YouTube, Instagram or other outlet – following your competition is an easy way to get daily insight into what they’re up to!

And, if you want to increase or adjust your social media presence or other marketing activities, taking tips from your competition will help you do just that! What are they doing better, worse or differently than you? Are there any behaviors that you want to emulate? For example, do they regularly use Twitter to resolve customer issues or do they run monthly Facebook promotions?

Monitoring your competition on social media is an easy way to get marketing ideas for your business! While you don’t want to be a copy cat and do everything that they’re doing, you may be able to modify a few of their marketing tactics for your own business!

Members, want more information on how to make social media work for you? Check out our Social Media Guide! Not a member yet? Sign up today!