On my visit to Mozambique last week, I was talking to a group of women entrepreneurs and the topic of how to deal with competition came up in conversation. One of the women talked about the problem of competitors copying her original idea. There was much discussion in the group about the need to create NDAs, copyrights, etc, to prevent competition and other people stealing ideas. However, the reality is that any good business idea will be copied. The best way to protect your business idea is to execute it really well and get to market first. When other people copy your idea, it means there is a market for it. Being first to market gives you a competitive advantage. Once your idea has been successfully executed, keep refining it to ensure your customers stay with you. That will keep you ahead of the game!
Have yourself an inspired entrepreneurial day! - Melanie