7 Simple Tips that are Proven to Help You Stay Ahead of the Competition

So you’ve created a successful business, congratulations! You probably did it by providing an unsurpassed level of customer service that not only meets customer expectations but exceeds them in a way that has made you stand out from the rest. As anyone can tell you, starting a successful business is not easy.

Now comes the even harder part. Not only sustaining that high level of performance, but continuing to grow and outpace the competition. There is no resting on your laurels in a competitive business market. Companies that stay successful for the longterm, make an active effort to keep on top. Here are just a few ways you can do the same.

1. Know the competition

It’s not enough to know what you excel at or what makes you unique, you need to know what your competitors are offering that makes them stand out. This serves two purposes: it will allow you to more clearly define your differences, or it may help you identify an area that you hadn’t considered before, opening up a potentially new way in which you can excel above the rest.

2. Know your customers

You might know your clientele very well, but as economic conditions change, so does your customer’s needs. What might have been a priority a year ago, won’t be if we are in the midst of an economic downturn, for example. As a business owner you should always be evaluating your strategies in every area constantly, knowing what your customer wants and needs from you is key. In fact you should be using your expertise to analyze potential market changes and anticipate those needs to stay ahead of the curve.

3. Have a strong understanding on what makes you unique

Once you accomplish the first two, you should have a clear idea of what unique advantage you offer people. This needs to be clear to everyone, so you can then take that idea and run with it. Find your niche and then market yourself with a focus on that idea. If you have a clear thing you’re selling, it is well worth the investment to market yourself to the hilt with that in mind.

4. Keep up to date

This goes for everything from technology to systems, marketing, and even your own personal image. If you have a brick and mortar location, you want to also keep things looking fresh and modern there, as well. First impressions are important for a reason. Everything about your business should tie into your marketing and branding. What are you selling and does everything line up to support that, from your business cards to your social media pages. Remember the key to branding and marketing is a consistent message.

5. Think like your competitors

One way your competitors looks to gain customers is by potentially taking yours. It goes without saying, you don’t want to let that happen. You’ve probably built great relationships, so really maintain those relationships by not only providing great service, but service that truly goes above and beyond. Find ways to give more to your customers. You might even want to start offering surveys, where your clients can tell you exactly what they’d like to see.This makes your clients not only feel heard, but blown away when you implement any changes they suggest.

6. Look for untapped markets

Don’t settle for maintaining what you have, there could be untapped markets out there. If you don’t get to them, your competitors will. So even if they come eventually, hopefully you’ll already be the dominate force in that market.

7. Be a great boss

One of the best things you can do to keep ahead of the rest, is by being a company where top talent and motivated newcomers want to be. Be the company that offers more than a competitive paycheck. Be a place that fosters talent, and offers scheduling and compensations packages that appeal more to people who think outside of the box. This will attract more innovative thinkers who value flexibility. Not only will you benefit from their talents, more importantly, your competition won’t.

JEANNE L. GOREY

With 41 years of experience under her belt, Jeanne L. Gorey is a Senior Mortgage Loan Originator who’s adapted to the ever-changing industry. Her expertise spans across first-time homebuyer loans, down payment assistance loans, VA, FHA, and conventional financing, as well as renovation loans. As both a mortgage banker and broker, she’s able to cater to clients with diverse needs, including those with lower credit scores or seeking investment homes. Operating from her Downers Grove, Illinois office, Jeanne works alongside a dedicated team, ensuring every aspect of the mortgage process is handled efficiently and effectively.

Jeanne’s outstanding reputation as a loan officer can be attributed to her strong referral network, which makes up the majority of her business. Clients trust her so much that they’re not only willing to refer friends and family, but even their own children. Jeanne says, “It’s just such an honor to help their loved ones, and it feels great to know they still trust me after all these years.” Her dedication to maintaining relationships sets her apart in the industry. Jeanne has a weekly schedule for connecting with past clients, agents, financial planners, and CPAs. She also organizes events to express gratitude to her supporters, a testament to her appreciation for those who have contributed to her success.

Those who work with Jeanne are blown away by her attentiveness and support. One recently said, “As a first time home buyer, I had no idea about the mortgage application process. Jeanne helped me a lot in understanding the process. She patiently listened to all my queries and provided answers, presenting me with all the different options, rates and helping me lock down a rate. Because of my business travel, I submitted the documentations too late, but Jeanne worked hard and made sure the home closed on time as planned. It was a great experience. I would highly recommend Jeanne Gorey and Neighborhood

Loans to anyone for their home mortgage.”

When it comes to marketing herself to REALTORS®, Jeanne relies heavily on word of mouth and the power of personal connections. She also makes connections through her involvement in the Main Street Organization of REALTORS® in Downers Grove. As an RPAC major investor, she supports numerous real estate initiatives and sponsorships. Through teaching classes and participating in panels at the organization, Jeanne positions herself as a knowledgeable resource in the industry, meeting new agents in the process.

Jeanne’s community involvement goes beyond her professional affiliations, as she actively participates in local charity efforts. She supports the Glen Ellyn food pantry and organizes an annual event called “12 Days of Giving.” This event encourages local businesses and community members to contribute to the food pantry, while participants have a chance to win gifts from the participating establishments. With each passing year, the event grows, fostering a sense of unity and fun within the community while supporting a worthy cause.

As Jeanne looks to the future, she aims to continue growing her business and offering added value to agents and clients alike. With a focus on educating clients and making the home buying process more accessible, she is passionate about putting the puzzle pieces together for each individual’s unique situation. As the “mortgage genie,” Jeanne loves making her clients’ home financing wishes come true, ensuring they find the perfect financing solutions to meet their needs and making the closing process a happy and fulfilling experience. “I love being able to put everything together and make it happen for my clients.”