So I’ve returned from a week at an industry trade show, the Miami Boat Show to be exact. Anyone who’s ever been involved in trade shows knows that while business is certainly the main agenda for most there are still underlying motives of others. It’s incredible to hear the buzz of negativity blossom each and every time. One prospect I talked to told me, “I was just down at your competition and the salesman said watch out for Lazzara Yachts they are having tough times.” to which that person said “So is that your sales presentation?”
Why do others feel the need to get involved in mud slinging against the competition?
It’s not just unique to my industry, it’s prevalent throughout the business (and blogging) world. However, the reaction from that incident was just a great reminder that you need to be focused on doing what you do and letting the work speak for itself. Letting your work speak for itself is a key characteristic that I see among great entrepreneurs and something we should all strive for. Sure pointing out that what you do or what you make does x to your competitions y is part of selling, but really does anyone think that mud slinging works these days?
Since you can’t sling mud without getting dirty don’t even bother.