A woman entrepreneur who is in the same industry as you is not your competition.

I’m going to say it again because it bears repeating—she is not your competition.

This is a huge mindset shift, I know, because we live in a world of competition—from soft drinks to political candidates. Many networking groups and mentors talk about competitors as if they are in your way to success.

Sure, you can believe that, but I propose a more feminine-energy way of looking at “competitors.” I hope you’ll continue reading to learn more.

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When you go to a networking meeting for the first time—whether virtually or in-person—what is your reaction when you see someone else there who is in the same industry as you?

Do you feel like the networking group won’t work out for you because there’s someone in a similar industry?

There’s no shame in having that feeling; it’s how we have been conditioned to think in a masculine-energy environment.

But I am here to tell you: that person is not your competition. In fact, she can become a powerful collaborative or strategic partner, and a primary referral source for you—if you let it happen!

Why is She Not Your Competition?

Let’s say you are a health coach, and you go to a networking meeting where another health coach is a member. Don’t run away! Go talk to her because chances are you both have different ideal clients, methodologies, and energies. Be curious and ask!

For example, you may help women in their 50s and 60s with menopause and post-menopause. After talking with this health coach, you discover she focuses on helping diabetics lower their blood sugar.

So on paper, you both may be “health coaches,” but after some digging, you realize you have different ideal clients! See? Not your competition!

But even if you did have the same ideal client, you both are individuals with your own methods and energies. And that still makes for strong collaborations and partnerships.

Your Competition Can Be Your Best Referral Partner

When you collaborate with a person in the same industry, you now have a powerful referral partner. If your ideal client comes across your collaborative partner’s desk, she can refer that person to you. Or if a client approaches her and she knows she is not the right healer for this client, she can refer to you instead.

Referrals are trust transfers, and these types of collaborations are the ultimate best outcome for a trust transfer. Because at the end of the day, you are helping people with your unique gifts.

Not to Mention Friendships

One more thing: that other woman entrepreneur is uniquely positioned to be more than your collaborative partner. She can be a sounding board, a mastermind partner, even a friend! Who better to understand your frustrations? Who else can appreciate your victories? I hope you can see how this relationship is a win-win for everyone!

So the next time you attend a networking meeting and someone is there from your industry, get excited! Think about the collaboration possibilities, the referral opportunities, and the chance to be business besties. This is not “pie in the sky” stuff. I have seen it firsthand as the founder of Virtual Networkers, and it’s a beautiful thing because, in the end, everyone gains.

Final Thoughts

Competition is often seen as a barrier to success, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Embracing a collaborative mindset can open doors to new opportunities, create valuable partnerships, and foster lasting friendships. By shifting your perspective and seeing others in your industry as potential allies rather than rivals, you can achieve greater success and fulfillment in your entrepreneurial journey.

Remember, when women support each other, incredible things happen. Embrace the power of collaboration and watch your business—and your life—transform.

MORE RESOURCES:

Here are other resources to support your networking journey:

Virtual Networkers: My global virtual networking organization for women entrepreneurs.

Weekly Connect Newsletter: Subscribe for networking and marketing tips, plus the upcoming week’s Virtual Networkers schedule.

Celestial Love Notes: Begin your free subscription to my daily inspirational emails, full of love and empowerment.

My Book, That First Client: Learn how to create an effective marketing system that will always attract clients to your business.

My Book, Loud Woman: Get inspired to be louder in your life and business.