2006 is almost history so it’s time to consider some resolutions for the New Year. Even if you don’t believe in making New Year’s resolutions, you likely want to improve your business or your professional status right? Sticking with that theme, why not consider the following:
Take an objective look at your competitors and make a list of the things they are not doing well. Pick out the areas your company is best equipped to take advantage of those current weaknesses and focus the appropriate effort on differentiating yourself versus attempting to do the same things well they are doing. There are plenty of “me too” companies out there so why not turn the tables on your competitors by attacking them where they’re weak for a change?
The beauty of this exercise is it can be equally effective for executives and employees alike. If you’re an employee looking to rise in the ranks, this will help set you apart from your co-workers and increase your perceived value to the organization. Executives should be making time for this type of analysis but many don’t because of the day-to-day operational concerns.
In the meantime, make it a great New Year!