What they are really asking

This question tests whether you understand the market, not only the company. Anyone can read an "About us" page. Knowing who else is fighting for the same customers, and how, shows you've thought about the business. It matters most in sales, marketing and strategy roles, but it can come up anywhere.

The trap is either guessing wildly or attacking the competitors. You don't need to be an analyst, and you shouldn't insult anyone; the interviewer may have worked there. Name two, say how each one competes, and then say where you think this company is different. If you're not sure, say so and explain how you'd find out.

A shape that works

Two names, how each competes, where this company stands. One sentence per competitor: are they cheaper, faster, bigger, more specialized? Then one or two sentences on the company's edge as you see it. Ending with a short question, such as "Is that how you see it?", turns a quiz into a conversation.

Model answers

Listen to how each answer is built, then make it yours.

Answer 1: an operations analyst in London, applying to Pinwheel Grocery
Answer 2: a customer success manager in Sydney, applying to Ledgerline
Answer 3: a product manager in Shanghai, applying to Feiyan Bikes

Check yourself

1What is the question really testing?
2Why does the London candidate end with a question?

Practice · 3 min

Pick a company in an industry you know. Find its two closest competitors. Record an answer: one sentence on how each competes, one or two sentences on where the company stands, and a short question at the end. Keep your tone fair toward the competitors.

Your recording stays on this device. Nothing is uploaded.

Say it today

Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.