Top 5 Things Every Entrepreneur Should Know
5. Your competitor is actually your BFF.
Whatever you felt about competition prior to reading this, let it go. Take a memory loss pill and practice the new idea that your competition is your new BFF (best friend forever). If anyone has competition, let me tell you it’s me, ladies. I am not only a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publicist in Los Angeles, but I am located in a very petite beach community where there are four other great lifestyle boutique PR firms with pretty much the same focus. We have a lot of similar clients, and some even in direct competition with one another. I could easily find some way to feel negative or insecure about how incredible they are and all the terrific things they bring to the table, but guess what? We’re all friends. Not necessarily the “holy Jimmy Choo I found the best bargain on pillows this weekend” friends, but we are more than acquaintances.
Just recently one had a BBQ for her husband’s birthday and we happened to all show up. Work was not discussed at all; we chatted about two of our dating debacles, my lame jeans, wine, and cute children (theirs) and interviewed a husband attendee about dating do’s and don’ts. Coincidentally one of them is also my mentor and I am so grateful for her. Within this group we pass along potential clients when we are unable to bring them on, or if there is a conflict of interest. It’s nice to be able to pass along business to a friend versus just saying to clients “no I cannot work with you because I have a feeling you are going to be a high-maintenance pain in my butt.” We have different personalities and it all works out.
Stacie Krajchir is a member of the Los Angeles Incubator and the founder of The Bungalow PR.
Ladies Who Launch is asking you … what do you think of Stacie’s advice? Let everyone know in the Comments section below!
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Wow… am I impressed with this go getter who knows her you know what…. Yes that is Stacie K 
I am inspired, motivated, and ready to take charge in my own music and coaching business. Thank you so much!! Ladies who Launch totally ROCKS!!
LaurieKnightMusic.com
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This is a great article with information that I am definitely going to use in my own business. Thanks!
Im looking for one right now! Where do you think a good watering hole for interns might be?
We find our interns through the local colleges. We are a PR agency, so we connect with the colleges who offer communications degrees. We now have an interns or two each semester and during the summer. They are a great members of our team.
Great article- it was really spot on advice, thanks for taking the time to really tell it as it is!
Jennifer
I completely agree with the advice about competitors. My business is very young and I reached out to several competitors to introduce myself and ask if they had learned lessons during thier start up that they might be willing to share — and they have been incredibly generous with their time and expertise! We now regularly correspond via email.
I think Stacie’s information is EXCELLENT!!! She provided so many valuable tips. In fact, not only am I about to reach out to several of my competitors, but I’m about to send an email to a fellow LWL member who I have something in common with.
Thanks Stacie!!!
Jana Stewart
http://www.janastewartfitness.com
thank you so much , this is so straight to the point. we learn everyday.