Sharing the pie with the competition.
I have a theory about Americans. From the day we are born we are taught to compete:
We are taught to do more than our parents. We are pushed to be the best at sports, academics, or music (or all of the above). We are even taught to strive for more than our siblings.
So it should come as no surprise that in business, we can get nasty with the competition. But it does not have to be that way. Sure, competition is great and healthy. But sometimes, it can get out of hand. After all, if they businesses were both planned well then there should be plenty of room for both!
What I recommend is that you go say “Hello!” to the competition. Open a line of communication. I would give a list of the benefits to you and your business, but The Small Business Idea Generator already has come up with a great list! Check it out at:
I totally agree. Getting to know my "competition" has been the best thing I have ever done for my business! I've found so much support and have learned so much from my peers.