Work with a competitor? It's an idea most CEOs and entrepreneurs shun. In reality, rivals can make good partners in business and this setup can potentially help drive more customers and sales for both parties. But how do we begin and ensure that this collaboration will be efficient and not cause unresolvable conflicts in the long run?
Mark Goldman has been an actor, author, storytelling expert, magician, mediator and psychodrama therapist. He's also been a meeting planner, dance instructor and a New York chef. This variety of roles has seen him work with many teams and different types of people. It's come very useful in his work as a mediator, resolving disputes and helping people avoid conflicts in the first place.
Quotes From Episode
“Your focus is always the competitor, the other guy, the other company. And I think in order to work with a competitor, you have to shift your focus to the customer and what the customer’s needs are.”
“How do you know if they’re not going to mess with you? How do you know that if you go over
there and talk to them, they’re not going to screw you or they’re going to get the better part of the deal? My belief is that if you trust yourself first and ... you can be honest with the other party and begin with a place of trust, that’s where it starts.”
-Mark Goldman
Don’t miss:
- Shifting your focus to the market’s needs
- Combining forces and resources with your rival
- How to negotiate with your competitor
- Understanding and adapting your rival’s practices
- The importance of intent in maintaining a healthy partnership
Mark Goldman's book on storytelling:
Storytelling Tips: Creating, Crafting & Telling Stories
Connect with Mark Goldman:
Email: mark@storytellermark.com
Website: www.storytellermark.com
Connect with Adelaine:
Email: uponarrivalpodcast@gmail.com