Here’s the thing about competition: if you’re good at what you do, others are going to follow suit.

When people imitate your product, it is a sign that your product is great cause people won't copy if it is not briliant. So take it as a compliment! But somehow you'll definitely be furious when someone is using your idea and spread as if its their's. What would you do to handle it?

1. Stand up for your own company

Chris Myers is the founder of BodeTree and there have been few other firms copying their approach as their success grew. Together with his team, they started a social media campaign with a side by side comparison and even sent them fruit baskets with a signed picture of the original presentation. They did had a fun with it but the important thing is they had gotten their point across. Eventually, the entire company that copied them went away.

2. Focus on your advantages

Don't let other people influence you! It is no surprise for Myers to notice there's another company that have been copying them. This time it is a well-established firm. He spent some time looking at it and had an epiphany. He realized in reality, they had first mover advantage and the creative talent to back it up. Instead of fighting it (or sending a fruit basket), they decided to ignore it and press forward.

Myers later said if you create something truly unique or successful, competitors are going to copy you. It’s an undeniable fact of life. What matters is how you respond to these scenarios. On one hand, you can have a bit of fun with it (send fruit baskets) and call them out for their actions, much as they did when his launch pitch was copied. On the other, you have the choice to take the higher road and recognize it as a sincere form of flattery. Just focus on growing your own company. If you do, chances are the market will take note.

Source: Forbes