Let’s be honest—business is basically a game of who does it better. And if your clients don’t know what their competitors are up to, they’re playing blindfolded (which, in case you were wondering, is a terrible strategy). That’s where competitive analysis comes in: the art of gathering intel, outsmarting rivals, and making sure your clients don’t end up as just another “good try” story.
So, how do you help your clients master this? Easy. Teach them to analyze the competition like a pro—without crossing into “stalker” territory.
1. Know Who the Real Competition Is
If they tell you they don’t have competition, call B.S. on it. Every business has direct and indirect competition. At the same time, not every company in their industry is a threat. Help them focus on actual competitors—businesses targeting the same audience with similar products OR businesses that satisfy the same need but in a different way. (No, the billion-dollar brand dominating the market isn’t their competition. Aim a little lower.)
2. Dissect Their Strategy Like a Science Experiment
What’s working for the competition? What’s flopping? Have them study everything—pricing, branding, customer reviews, marketing tactics. Success leaves clues, and so does failure (which is sometimes even more useful).
3. Read the Reviews (a.k.a. The Goldmine of Customer Opinions)
Want to know where competitors are screwing up? The reviews will tell you. Teach your clients to dig through customer complaints—those are prime opportunities to do better. If people are begging for a feature the competitor lacks, boom—that’s their next move.
4. Outshine, Don’t Just Imitate
Copying is lazy (and also obvious). The goal isn’t to become a knockoff version of the competition—it’s to be the better version. Help clients find gaps in the market, unique angles, and ways to offer something their rivals can’t.
5. Keep an Eye on Their Every Move (Without Being Creepy)
Competitor research isn’t a one-time thing. Set up Google alerts, track their content, watch their ad strategies. No, this isn’t “obsessing”—it’s staying ahead of the game.
The Bottom Line
Competitive analysis isn’t just about knowing who’s out there—it’s about beating them. Help your clients get smart, stay agile, and always be three steps ahead. Because in business, the smartest (not just the loudest) wins.