Competition, How to Gain a Sensational Edge!
Competition
No matter what business you are in, there will be competition. Therefore, who do you consider to be yours? Additionally, have you been rivals with them for years? Alternatively, are they a newcomer to the scene? Furthermore, what causes potential clients to consider your rivals? Moreover, do you know what they are doing that you aren’t? As a result, how can you gain the edge? Now, let’s dive a little deeper below
Different Types of Warehouses
All warehouses are not created equal. Some offer refrigerated services, others don’t. Some warehouses offer both storage and trucking services, while others offer only storage. Which one are you? Are you comparing yourself to warehouses similar to yourself, or across the board? Although it can be educational to compare yourself across the board, the primary focus should be on comparing yourself to others who offer the same service as you. For us, that means comparing to those who only do non-refrigerated storage.
Ways to Gain an Edge
Now that you know who your competition is, how do you plan on gaining the edge? This is a question that we ask ourselves routinely; it helps us to improve. For most businesses, including warehousing, it’s not usually the big moves that make a difference; it’s the little things. Let’s face it, anybody can store a bunch of boxes, but storage done properly and carefully, according to a client’s needs, can be a cat of a different color. Forward-facing warehouses understand they must operate on a client-based basis.
Tips to Gain the Advantage Over the Competition
- Keep your software up to date. This is critical to tracking a client’s inventory.
- Do yearly forklift training.
- Have a maintenance agreement in place for all of your equipment to ensure proper running.
- Invite clients and potential clients to visit. This open policy goes a long way in making people comfortable.
- During discussions with a potential client, you will be able to ask and answer questions.
- Know and understand your limitations, and be honest with potential newcomers. This may not get you the account, but they will remember the honesty.
- Be sure that the word-of-mouth information going out about you is as positive as possible. Nobody is perfect, but always strive to be your best!
In Summary
In short, it is important to compare yourself and understand how you size up. Knowledge is key, and growth in part depends on your understanding of your potential and limitations. This article touches on some areas that may help you find some advantages that can help you grow.
