4 Legal Ways To Spy On Your Competitors

Competition in business is normal and can be considered as healthy at times. As a business owner, you want to know how your competitors are doing. What are their marketing tactics? What makes them tick? What do they have that you don’t have?

The thing is, you can possibly know the answers to these questions and more, with the aid of technology. And, you can do this the legal way.

Make Use of Google Alerts

If you set up Google Alerts, you will be notified with new information about your competition. This includes mentions, press releases, about their products and employees. The alerts will show up in your email box. Make sure to follow the instructions so you can take full advantage of the benefits of using Google Alerts. Also, the Google Alerts webpage has links with useful tips. Check them out on the right side of the page.

Be a Follower on Social Media

Almost everyone is on social media, including your competitors. Find out the names of their Facebook, Google+, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter profiles. By following them on these social networking sites, you will be aware about their upcoming releases, plans, and promos.

Follow some of their employees as well. It also pays to know who mentions and follows them in social media. You can connect with their other followers too, in order to broaden your own network.

Find Key Employees

Leading businesses usually have key employees working for them. Find out the names of the key employees of your competition, and search for them online. It enables you to learn some of their activities, both past and present.

What business events they have attended? What have they posted about their company? Who are their affiliations? You’ll be able to see some of these details in your queries. Continue keeping track of these major employees and you will have an idea how they get attention and publicity for their products.

Get to Know Their Customers and Vendors

If you have an opportunity to talk to your competitors’ customers and vendors, then you’ll get some firsthand information. Ask questions about your competitors in a tactful manner. Ask them what they can say about the competitor, and if they were satisfied with the products and services. But first, at least establish a good rapport with these people.

One way to survive in the business world is to know and get closer to your competition. During the process, do not forget to protect yourself by buying business insurance. At Insurance Services of the West, LLC, we take pride in making sure that our clients are well-protected at prices they can afford. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (425) 681-0996 or Click Here to request a free quote.