What Are Your Competitors Doing Today?

If you want to monitor your competitors' web sites for changes (to learn if they are changing menu items, prices, operating conditions, special events and such), use this technique.

Go to: http://www.changedetection.com

This is a bit different from the tip I shared recently. In addition to learning what might be said in the media about any of your competitors, suppliers or key customers, (e.g. by using Google Alerts), this technique allows you to know about any changes in their web site or blog… instantly.

This will alert you to ANY change (even one word!) on their blog or site.

You can type in the exact web sites/blogs you want to monitor (e.g. I use this to closely watch four blogs and three competitive sites, every day). If you know who they are, you're all set. You will be notified immediately when they make any change. This way you can keep close track of the changes that might not appear in the media; namely those they make in the copy or images on their blogs and web sites. This might include: menu item or price changes; hours of operation, features or offers, new staff; e.g. a new chef; or any special events they may be announcing. It's a great way to stay on top of not only your competitors; but also your very best customers by way of their firms' sites. Don't forget your major suppliers, or a firm you would like to impress with your knowledge of their business and current events.

It's a wonderful way to make an astounding impression and positively differentiate yourself with them…especially if they receive congratulations from you (when appropriate) before the media even know about it themselves!

What do you think? Care to share your 2 cents? I'd appreciate your feedback and comments below.