Working in New York's Financial District, Elliot Ashkenazie had competitors on nearby blocks. In his April 2022 Forbes Business Council article, he described what he learned by getting to know them.
Dinner and a whiteboard
After considering the idea for a year, Ashkenazie invited competitors to his office for dinner. With a whiteboard nearby, the group discussed their experiences, strengths, and difficulties. The evening was friendlier than he had expected.
He found value in hearing how other owners approached their work and in receiving constructive feedback on his own.
Learn, then adapt
Ashkenazie encouraged owners to make introductions and talk at industry events. His advice was to use another person's experience to question and improve your own approach, while keeping your business distinct.
MCP shared the article in September 2022. The full piece is linked below.
