Comments on: 9 Ways to Check Your Gift Basket Competition

By: Shirley George Frazier

Shirley George Frazier — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 22:23:07 +0000

This is wonderful news on how you build your business by creating allies rather than take a defensive approach.

You’ve explained this masterfully, and I can tell that this attitude wins you a lot of business and referral sales.

Fantastic!

By: T. Costello

T. Costello — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 19:24:43 +0000

I have met several of my “competitors” while attending local business meetings and classes. I always introduce myself and exchange business cards with them. People are always amazed by this, but I believe you gain more by becoming an ally than an enemy. You never know when you’ll get a big order and run out of a necessary item; having a local basketeer who may be available to help pack a megaorder also never hurts. Each business has its own style and customer. If you compete only by price, you can never win. If you recognize each “competitor” has having the same challenges as you, you can better empathise and find win-win situations for both of you. I also refer customers to gift basket businesses closer to where they need the basket to go to save them hefty delivery fees. Remember, you can’t possibly be all things to all people!

By: Shirley George Frazier

Shirley George Frazier — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:37:31 +0000

Hi Flora,

What – no binoculars, no spy cam?

Okay, I’ve never used such technology, but over on this end of the U.S. (east coast), I don’t know of one designer who would not be suspicious of the competition entering their shop, even with olive branch extended.

Hey designers, is Flora’s method more your style, or do you wear dark shades as cover?

By: Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D.

Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D. — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 17:11:45 +0000

Hi Shirley,

I’m not good at espionage so I just walk in and identify myself to new competition in town. But instead of asking questions about their business, I ask how I can help them as a fellow business owner.

This will open the door to learning about their business, but with the intent of cooperating, referring or maybe even partnering.

Some business owners will be shocked by this openness and will fear that there is some trickery involved. But most appreciate the straightforward approach and will become an ally instead of an enemy.