Strategy

10 Perplexity Prompts for Competitor Analysis

Published 51 min read
10 Perplexity Prompts for Competitor Analysis

** Why Competitor Analysis Matters in the AI Era**

Let’s be honest—competitor research used to feel like detective work with a blindfold. You’d spend hours digging through websites, manually comparing prices, and guessing at ad strategies. Then you’d cross your fingers and hope your gut feeling was right. Not exactly a winning strategy, right?

Now, AI tools like Perplexity have changed the game. Instead of sifting through spreadsheets or playing guessing games, you can get instant, data-backed insights with just a few smart prompts. No more wasting time on outdated methods—just fast, accurate intel that actually moves the needle.

Why Traditional Competitor Research Falls Short

Old-school competitor analysis had some big problems:

  • Time-consuming: Manually tracking pricing, features, and ads takes forever.
  • Incomplete: You might miss key details or overlook hidden trends.
  • Outdated: By the time you finish your research, the data is already old.
  • Expensive: Hiring agencies or buying premium tools isn’t always an option for small teams.

AI fixes all of this. With the right prompts, you can scrape competitor data in minutes, spot patterns instantly, and even predict their next moves. It’s like having a research assistant who never sleeps—and never asks for a raise.

How Perplexity AI Makes Competitor Research Smarter

Perplexity isn’t just another AI tool—it’s a game-changer for competitive intelligence. Here’s why:

  • Real-time data: Pulls the latest info from websites, ads, and reviews.
  • Summarizes key insights: Instead of raw data, you get actionable takeaways.
  • Customizable prompts: Tailor your questions to get exactly what you need.
  • No coding required: Works like a search engine, but smarter.

For example, instead of manually checking a competitor’s pricing page, you can ask Perplexity: “What are [Competitor X]’s pricing tiers, and how do they compare to [Your Product]?” Boom—you get a clear breakdown in seconds.

Who This Guide Is For

This isn’t just for big corporations with deep pockets. These prompts are for:

  • Marketers who want to outsmart competitors without burning hours on research.
  • Product managers who need to spot gaps in the market fast.
  • Founders who can’t afford to guess—every decision counts.
  • SEO specialists who want to reverse-engineer competitor strategies.

The 10 prompts in this guide will help you uncover pricing secrets, feature gaps, ad strategies, and more. No fluff—just practical, ready-to-use questions that give you an edge.

Ready to stop guessing and start winning? Let’s dive in.

The Fundamentals of Competitor Analysis with AI Prompts

Competitor analysis isn’t just about knowing who your rivals are—it’s about understanding why they’re winning (or losing) in your market. And let’s be honest: manually digging through competitor websites, ads, and customer reviews is slow, tedious, and often incomplete. That’s where AI tools like Perplexity come in. They don’t just save time—they uncover insights you might miss with traditional research.

So why is Perplexity AI ideal for this? First, it’s fast. Instead of spending hours scraping data, you can get summaries of competitor pricing, features, and ad strategies in minutes. Second, it’s accurate. Perplexity pulls real-time information from live sources, so you’re not working with outdated data. And third, it goes deep. Need to know how customers feel about a competitor’s latest feature? Perplexity can analyze reviews and social media to give you sentiment trends.

But what exactly should you be looking for? Here are the key data points to extract:

  • Pricing: Are they cheaper? More expensive? Do they offer discounts or bundles?
  • Features: What do they offer that you don’t? What’s missing in their product?
  • Ad strategies: What messaging are they using? Which platforms are they targeting?
  • Customer sentiment: What do users love (or hate) about their product?

The Limitations of AI—and How to Fill the Gaps

AI tools are powerful, but they’re not perfect. For example, Perplexity might miss nuances in ad copy or misinterpret customer reviews. That’s why you should always supplement AI research with manual checks. Visit competitor websites yourself. Sign up for their newsletters. Even try their free trials if possible. Think of AI as your research assistant—not your replacement.

Another limitation? AI can’t always tell you why a competitor made a certain decision. Maybe they raised prices because of supply chain issues, or maybe they’re testing a new market. That’s where your industry knowledge comes in. Combine AI insights with your own expertise to make smarter decisions.

Ethical Considerations: Don’t Cross the Line

Before you dive into competitor research, there’s one critical rule: don’t break the law. Many websites prohibit scraping in their terms of service, and violating these rules can lead to legal trouble. Perplexity is designed to respect these boundaries, but it’s still your responsibility to use it ethically.

Here’s how to stay on the right side of the rules:

  • Avoid scraping private data (like internal documents or user emails).
  • Don’t impersonate competitors (e.g., pretending to be a customer to access restricted info).
  • Use public data (like pricing pages, ads, and reviews) for analysis.

At the end of the day, competitor analysis isn’t about copying what others are doing—it’s about learning from them to improve your own strategy. AI tools like Perplexity make this process faster and more efficient, but they work best when paired with human judgment. So go ahead, run those prompts, but don’t forget to think critically about what the data really means for your business.

Prompt #1: Competitor Pricing Intelligence – How to Extract and Compare

Pricing is the heartbeat of your business. Get it wrong, and you either leave money on the table or scare customers away. Get it right, and you win more sales while keeping your margins healthy. But here’s the problem: your competitors aren’t exactly sending you their pricing sheets. So how do you figure out what they’re charging—and how to position yourself against them?

That’s where competitor pricing intelligence comes in. With the right AI prompt, you can scrape, analyze, and compare pricing models in minutes—not days. No more manual spreadsheets or guesswork. Just clear, actionable data that helps you make smarter decisions. Let’s break down how to do it.


Crafting the Perfect Pricing Intelligence Prompt

The key to getting useful results is precision. A vague prompt like “Tell me about competitor pricing” will give you generic answers. Instead, you need to be specific. Here’s how to structure your query for maximum impact:

Example Prompt: “Analyze the pricing pages of [Competitor A], [Competitor B], and [Competitor C] for [product/service]. Extract their pricing tiers, features included in each tier, and any discounts or promotions. Compare them side-by-side in a table, highlighting differences in pricing, features, and value. Also note any regional pricing variations or dynamic pricing strategies they use.”

Why this works:

  • Names competitors explicitly – No guesswork for the AI.
  • Specifies what to extract – Pricing tiers, features, discounts.
  • Asks for a comparison – Side-by-side tables make analysis easy.
  • Includes regional/dynamic pricing – Covers real-world complexities.

Pro tip: If your competitors use dynamic pricing (like airlines or SaaS companies with usage-based models), add this to your prompt: “Note any pricing that changes based on usage, demand, or customer segments.”


Where This Works Best: SaaS, E-Commerce, and Services

Not all businesses price the same way. Here’s how competitor pricing intelligence applies to different models:

1. SaaS (Software as a Service)

  • What to look for: Monthly vs. annual pricing, per-user costs, feature limitations.
  • Example: If you sell project management software, compare how competitors charge for extra storage, integrations, or team size.
  • Hidden gem: Some SaaS companies offer “freemium” plans—note what’s free vs. paid.

2. E-Commerce (Physical Products)

  • What to look for: Base price, shipping costs, bulk discounts, subscription options.
  • Example: If you sell fitness equipment, check if competitors offer free shipping or bundle deals.
  • Hidden gem: Look for “price anchoring”—where they show a higher “original price” next to a discount.

3. Service-Based Businesses

  • What to look for: Hourly rates, package pricing, retainer models, add-on services.
  • Example: If you’re a marketing agency, compare how competitors price SEO vs. PPC services.
  • Hidden gem: Some agencies hide pricing behind “contact us” forms—use AI to estimate based on case studies or reviews.

What You’ll Get: A Side-by-Side Pricing Table (Example)

Here’s the kind of output you can expect from a well-crafted prompt:

FeatureYour ProductCompetitor ACompetitor B
Basic Plan$19/month$29/month$15/month
Users Included111
Storage5GB10GB2GB
Advanced Analytics
24/7 Support
Annual Discount20%15%None
Free Trial14 days7 days30 days

What this tells you:

  • Competitor B is the cheapest, but lacks features.
  • Competitor A charges more but includes support.
  • You’re the only one with advanced analytics in the basic plan.

Now you can adjust your pricing or messaging to highlight your strengths.


Pro Tips: Handling the Tricky Stuff

Pricing isn’t always straightforward. Here’s how to handle the messy parts:

1. Dynamic Pricing (Prices That Change)

  • Problem: Some companies adjust prices based on demand, location, or user behavior.
  • Solution: Add this to your prompt: “Note any pricing that changes based on time, location, or customer type. Provide examples if possible.”
  • Example: Airlines and hotels do this—your prompt should flag it.

2. Hidden Discounts

  • Problem: Competitors might offer discounts for students, nonprofits, or bulk buyers.
  • Solution: Ask: “List any special discounts, coupons, or loyalty programs they offer.”
  • Example: Some SaaS companies give 50% off to nonprofits—this could be a selling point for you.

3. Regional Variations

  • Problem: Prices can differ by country or currency.
  • Solution: Specify regions in your prompt: “Compare pricing in the US, EU, and Asia.”
  • Example: A tool might cost $10/month in the US but €9/month in Europe.

4. “Contact Us” Pricing

  • Problem: Some companies don’t list prices publicly.
  • Solution: Use this workaround: “Estimate pricing based on customer reviews, case studies, or industry benchmarks.”
  • Example: If a competitor’s case study mentions a client paying $5,000/month, that’s a data point.

What to Do With This Data

Now that you have the pricing intel, here’s how to use it:

  1. Adjust your pricing – If you’re overpriced for your features, consider lowering costs or adding value.
  2. Highlight your strengths – If you offer better features at a similar price, shout it in your marketing.
  3. Create bundles – If competitors charge extra for add-ons, bundle them into your plans.
  4. Target gaps – If no one offers a mid-tier plan, create one to capture that audience.

Remember: Pricing isn’t set in stone. Use this data to test, iterate, and find what works best for your business. The goal isn’t to copy—it’s to outsmart.

Prompt #2: Feature Gap Analysis – Identifying What Competitors Offer (That You Don’t)

Ever launched a product only to realize a competitor has a feature you never even considered? It’s frustrating, right? You thought you had everything covered—until you see customers raving about something you don’t offer. That’s where feature gap analysis comes in. It’s not about copying what others do. It’s about spotting opportunities to stand out, improve, or even pivot your product strategy before you fall behind.

The good news? You don’t need a team of analysts or expensive software to do this. With the right prompt, AI can scan competitor websites, reviews, and marketing materials to highlight what they offer—and what you’re missing. The key is asking the right questions. Let’s break down how to structure this prompt so you get actionable insights, not just a long list of random features.


How to Structure Your Feature Gap Analysis Prompt

A vague prompt like “Tell me what features my competitors have” won’t cut it. You’ll get a messy, unfocused response. Instead, be specific. Here’s how to craft a prompt that delivers clear, organized results:

Example Prompt: *“Analyze [Competitor A], [Competitor B], and [Competitor C] in the [industry/niche] space. For each competitor, list their key features in these categories:

  1. Core functionality (what the product does at its most basic level)
  2. Unique selling points (features that make them stand out)
  3. Integrations (tools they connect with, like Slack, Zapier, etc.)
  4. Pricing tiers (which features are locked behind higher plans)
  5. User experience (ease of use, customization, or automation options)

Then, compare these features to [Your Product Name]. Highlight:

  • Features they offer that we don’t
  • Features we offer that they don’t
  • Features where both products overlap but one does it better

Present the results in a table format for easy comparison.”*

Why this works:

  • Categories keep the response organized. No more sifting through a wall of text.
  • Comparison forces the AI to think critically. It won’t just list features—it’ll tell you where you’re ahead or behind.
  • Table format makes it scannable. You can glance at the results and spot gaps instantly.

Pro tip: If you’re in a niche with technical features (like SaaS or e-commerce), add a line like “Explain each feature in simple terms for a non-technical audience.” This ensures you don’t get lost in jargon.


What You’ll Get: A Feature Matrix Example

Here’s a simplified version of what the AI might return for a project management tool comparison:

FeatureYour ProductCompetitor ACompetitor BGap?
Kanban boardsNo gap
Time trackingMissing
Gantt chartsCompetitor B wins
Slack integrationYou win
AI task automationMissing
Custom reporting✅ (basic)✅ (advanced)Competitor A wins

At a glance, you can see:

  • You’re missing time tracking and AI automation—two features competitors are using to attract users.
  • You have better Slack integration—something to highlight in your marketing.
  • Competitor A’s reporting is more advanced—a potential area to improve.

This isn’t just data. It’s a roadmap for your next product update.


How to Use These Insights (Without Copying Competitors)

Finding gaps is only half the battle. The real value comes from deciding what to do with them. Here’s how to turn this analysis into action:

1. Prioritize Based on Customer Needs

Not all gaps are worth filling. Ask yourself:

  • Are customers actually asking for this feature? Check reviews, support tickets, or surveys.
  • Does it align with our product vision? If a feature doesn’t fit your long-term goals, skip it.
  • Can we do it better? If a competitor offers a clunky version of a feature, you might outshine them with a smoother alternative.

Example: If the AI flags that competitors lack mobile apps, but your users constantly complain about desktop-only access, that’s a green light to prioritize mobile development.

2. Refine Your Value Proposition

Sometimes, the gaps reveal what not to do. For instance:

  • If competitors all offer a feature you don’t (like live chat support), but your users prefer email, you might double down on email response times instead of adding chat.
  • If you’re missing a “nice-to-have” feature (like dark mode), but competitors are struggling with bugs in it, you might avoid it until it’s more stable.

Use these insights to differentiate, not just catch up.

3. Validate with Real Users

AI is smart, but it’s not a replacement for customer feedback. Before building anything, test the waters:

  • Run a poll: “Would you use [missing feature] if we added it?”
  • Check forums: Are people complaining about the lack of this feature in competitor products?
  • Offer a beta: If possible, build a minimal version and gather feedback.

Case study: A SaaS company noticed competitors lacked a specific integration. They assumed users wanted it, but when they surveyed their audience, they found most didn’t even know the integration existed. They saved months of development time by validating first.


Pro Tips to Get the Most Out of This Prompt

1. Go Beyond the Obvious Competitors

Don’t just analyze the big players in your industry. Look at:

  • Indirect competitors: Tools that solve the same problem differently (e.g., Notion vs. Trello vs. spreadsheets).
  • Emerging startups: They often experiment with bold features that bigger companies ignore.
  • Customer workarounds: If users are hacking together solutions (like using Google Sheets as a CRM), that’s a gap you can fill.

2. Dig Deeper with Follow-Up Prompts

Once you have the initial feature list, ask:

  • “Which of these missing features are mentioned most often in [Competitor]’s customer reviews?”
  • “How do [Competitor]’s users describe the pain points this feature solves?”
  • “Are there any features [Competitor] is planning to add soon? Check their roadmap or recent updates.”

This turns a static list into a strategic advantage.

3. Combine with Other Prompts for a Full Picture

Feature gaps don’t exist in a vacuum. Pair this analysis with:

  • Pricing prompts (e.g., “Do competitors charge extra for these features?”)
  • Ad strategy prompts (e.g., “Which features do competitors highlight in their ads?”)
  • Review prompts (e.g., “What do users love/hate about these features?”)

The more angles you explore, the clearer your next move becomes.


The Bottom Line: Turn Gaps into Growth

Feature gap analysis isn’t about playing catch-up. It’s about spotting opportunities before your competitors do. Whether you’re a startup looking to disrupt the market or an established business refining your product, this prompt gives you the clarity to make smarter decisions.

Start small: Pick two competitors, run the prompt, and see what pops up. You might discover a feature that could become your next big selling point—or realize you’re already ahead in ways you didn’t even know.

The goal isn’t to build every missing feature. It’s to build the right ones. And with the right prompts, you’ll know exactly what those are.

Prompt #3: Ad Strategy Decoding – Reverse-Engineering Competitor Campaigns

Ever scroll through social media and think, “How did they come up with that ad?” You’re not alone. The best ads don’t just appear out of thin air—they’re carefully crafted based on data, testing, and (often) stealing ideas from competitors. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a big budget or a fancy agency to figure out what’s working for others. With the right prompt, you can peel back the layers of your competitors’ ad strategies and use their secrets to fuel your own.

This isn’t about copying. It’s about learning. Maybe their ad copy makes you click. Maybe their landing page converts like crazy. Or maybe their targeting is so precise, it feels like they’re reading your mind. The goal? To spot patterns, borrow what works, and avoid what doesn’t—without wasting months (or thousands of dollars) on trial and error.

What This Prompt Actually Does

This prompt is like giving Perplexity AI a magnifying glass and saying, “Show me everything.” Here’s what it digs up for you:

  • Ad creatives: The actual images, videos, or carousels your competitors are running. No more guessing—you’ll see the exact visuals they’re testing.
  • Messaging: The headlines, body copy, and emotional triggers they use. Are they pushing urgency? Social proof? A specific pain point?
  • Targeting strategies: Who they’re going after (demographics, interests, behaviors) and where they’re placing ads (Facebook, Google, TikTok, etc.).
  • Landing pages: The full structure of their post-click experience. What’s above the fold? How many CTAs do they use? What’s their value proposition?
  • Performance clues: While AI can’t see exact metrics, it can spot trends—like which ads have been running for months (a sign they’re working) or which ones disappeared quickly (a sign they flopped).

Think of it as a cheat sheet for your own campaigns. Instead of starting from scratch, you’re building on what’s already proven to work.

How to Use This Data (Without Just Copying)

Okay, so you’ve got a pile of competitor ads. Now what? Here’s how to turn those insights into action:

1. Paid Media Optimization

  • A/B test their best ideas: If a competitor’s ad has been running for 6+ months, it’s probably converting. Try a similar angle but with your brand’s voice.
  • Fill the gaps: Notice they’re all targeting the same audience? Find a segment they’re ignoring (e.g., older demographics, niche interests) and test ads there.
  • Improve their weak spots: If their landing page has a confusing CTA or too much text, make yours clearer and more direct.

2. Audience Segmentation

  • Reverse-engineer their targeting: If they’re running ads for “busy moms who love meal prep,” ask: Why this group? Is it because they convert well? Or because they’re underserved?
  • Find lookalike audiences: Use their targeting as inspiration to create your own lookalike audiences on Facebook or Google.
  • Spot untapped niches: If they’re only advertising to one country, could you expand to another? If they’re ignoring mobile users, could you optimize for that?

3. Creative Inspiration

  • Borrow (then improve): Their ad uses a bright yellow background? Try it—but make yours more eye-catching. Their video is 15 seconds? Test a 10-second version.
  • Steal their hooks: If their headline is “Tired of [pain point]? We fix that.”—try a similar structure but with your own twist.
  • Avoid their mistakes: If their ad has low engagement, ask: Is the image too busy? Is the CTA unclear? Don’t repeat the same errors.

Example Output: What You’ll See

Let’s say you run a SaaS company selling project management tools. You plug in this prompt and get back something like this:

Competitor Ad #1 (Facebook)

  • Creative: A 15-second video showing a frustrated team in a chaotic meeting, then cutting to their tool’s dashboard with everything organized.
  • Headline: “Your Team’s Chaos Ends Here—Try [Tool] Free for 14 Days”
  • Body Copy: “Over 50,000 teams use [Tool] to cut meeting time in half. No credit card needed—start today.”
  • CTA: “Start Free Trial”
  • Targeting: Managers at tech startups, ages 25-45, interested in “productivity” and “remote work.”
  • Landing Page: Minimalist design, a short explainer video, and a single CTA button above the fold.

What You Can Learn

  • The hook: They’re targeting frustration (chaos) and offering a quick fix. Could you test a similar angle?
  • The CTA: “Start Free Trial” is direct. Is yours as clear?
  • The landing page: They keep it simple. Does yours overwhelm visitors with too much info?

Pro Tips: Taking It Further

AI gives you the raw material, but tools like SEMrush, SpyFu, or even Facebook’s Ad Library can add depth. Here’s how to combine them:

  • SpyFu: See which keywords your competitors are bidding on in Google Ads. Are they targeting “best project management tool” or “easy task manager”? Bid on the same terms—or find gaps they’re missing.
  • SEMrush: Check their ad spend and top-performing ads. If they’re spending $10K/month on a specific campaign, it’s probably working.
  • Facebook Ad Library: See every ad they’ve run in the last 90 days. Filter by country, platform, or time to spot trends.
  • Manual sleuthing: Sign up for their email list. Click their ads. See where they send you. The more you interact, the more data you’ll gather.

The Biggest Mistake to Avoid

Don’t just copy-paste. The goal isn’t to become a cheaper version of your competitor—it’s to outsmart them. Use their ads as a starting point, then ask:

  • How can we make this better?
  • What are they missing?
  • How can we stand out?

For example, if their ad is all about “saving time,” could you test one about “reducing stress”? If their landing page is text-heavy, could yours be more visual? Small tweaks can make a big difference.

Final Thought

Ad strategies aren’t magic—they’re science. The best marketers don’t guess; they test, learn, and adapt. With this prompt, you’re not just spying on competitors—you’re giving yourself a shortcut to better campaigns. So go ahead, run the prompt, and start decoding. Your next winning ad might be hiding in plain sight.

Prompt #4: Customer Sentiment & Review Mining – What Users Really Think

Ever read a competitor’s reviews and think, “Wow, people really hate this feature”? Or maybe you’ve seen glowing praise for something you didn’t even know was important? Customer reviews are like a goldmine—if you know how to dig. The problem? Most businesses just skim them. They see a few 5-star ratings and call it a day. But the real insights? They’re buried in the complaints, the “meh” reviews, and the random Reddit threads where people rant about their frustrations.

That’s where this prompt comes in. Instead of manually reading hundreds of reviews (who has time for that?), you’ll use AI to scrape, summarize, and analyze what customers actually think about your competitors. No more guessing. No more assuming. Just cold, hard data about what’s working—and what’s driving people crazy.

What This Prompt Actually Does

This isn’t just about counting stars. The right prompt will:

  • Extract key themes – What do people love? What do they hate?
  • Break down sentiment – How many reviews are positive, negative, or neutral?
  • Highlight pain points – What’s the one thing customers keep complaining about?
  • Find hidden opportunities – What’s missing that your product could solve?

For example, if you run this prompt on a competitor’s SaaS tool, you might discover that 60% of negative reviews mention slow customer support. Boom. That’s your chance to highlight your 24/7 live chat in your next ad campaign.

How to Use This Data (Without Just Copying)

Okay, so you’ve got the data. Now what? Here’s how to turn it into action:

1. Fix What’s Broken in Your Own Product

If customers are complaining about a competitor’s clunky checkout process, make sure yours is smooth as butter. If they hate hidden fees, be upfront about pricing. Don’t just avoid their mistakes—exploit them.

2. Refine Your Messaging

Let’s say a competitor’s reviews keep praising their “easy setup.” That’s a keyword you should be using in your ads, landing pages, and even product descriptions. If customers care about it, you should be talking about it too.

Maybe a small but growing number of reviews mention a feature request. If you see the same thing popping up in multiple places, that’s a sign of demand. Could you be the first to offer it?

4. Find Your Unique Angle

If everyone’s complaining about the same thing, that’s your opening. For example:

  • Competitor’s reviews: “Great product, but the mobile app is terrible.”
  • Your positioning: “The only [product] with a mobile app that actually works.”

Where to Scrape Reviews (Beyond Just Google)

Google Reviews and Trustpilot are obvious choices, but don’t stop there. Some of the juiciest insights come from places like:

  • Reddit – People are brutally honest in niche subreddits. Search for “[Competitor Name] + review” or “[Industry] + alternatives.”
  • G2 or Capterra – B2B software buyers leave detailed feedback here. Look for patterns in the “Cons” section.
  • Amazon (if applicable) – If your competitor sells physical products, Amazon reviews are a treasure trove of complaints about quality, packaging, or shipping.
  • YouTube comments – Sometimes, video reviews get more raw feedback than written ones.
  • Social media – Twitter/X and Facebook groups often have unfiltered rants (or praise) that don’t show up in official reviews.

Pro tip: If you’re using Perplexity or another AI tool, feed it multiple sources. The more data it has, the clearer the picture you’ll get.

Example Output: What You’ll Actually See

Here’s a simplified version of what this prompt might spit out for a fictional project management tool:


Competitor: TaskMaster Pro Total Reviews Analyzed: 1,247 Sentiment Breakdown:

  • 😊 Positive: 58% (“Love the Kanban boards!”)
  • 😐 Neutral: 22% (“It’s fine, but nothing special.”)
  • 😠 Negative: 20% (“Customer support is non-existent.”)

Top Praise:

  1. Intuitive interface (mentioned in 34% of positive reviews)
  2. Great for remote teams (28%)
  3. Affordable pricing (22%)

Top Complaints:

  1. Buggy mobile app (45% of negative reviews)
  2. No dark mode (23%)
  3. Slow customer support (18%)

Hidden Opportunity:

  • 12% of neutral/negative reviews mention wanting better integrations with Slack and Zoom.

Now, imagine you’re building a competing tool. What do you do with this?

  • Highlight your smooth mobile app in ads.
  • Add dark mode (it’s an easy win).
  • Brag about your fast support in your marketing.
  • Build Slack/Zoom integrations before your competitor does.

The Biggest Mistake to Avoid

Don’t just focus on the negative. Yes, complaints are useful, but praise is just as valuable. If customers love a competitor’s feature, you need to either:

  • Match it (if it’s a must-have), or
  • Do it better (if you can improve on it).

For example, if people rave about a competitor’s “one-click reports,” but your tool has customizable one-click reports? That’s your selling point.

Final Thought: Reviews Are a Conversation

Think of customer reviews like eavesdropping on a focus group. People are telling you exactly what they want—you just have to listen. The businesses that win aren’t the ones with the most features. They’re the ones that actually solve problems their competitors ignore.

So go ahead, run this prompt. Dig into those reviews. And then use what you find to build something even better. Because the best way to beat the competition? Give customers what they’re already asking for.

Ever feel like your competitors are ranking for all the best keywords while you’re stuck on page two? You’re not alone. The truth is, most businesses don’t know how their competitors are winning in search. They just see the results—higher rankings, more traffic, and better conversions. But what if you could peek behind the curtain? What if you could see exactly which keywords they’re targeting, where their backlinks are coming from, and how they’re structuring their content?

That’s where this prompt comes in. It’s not just about spying on competitors—it’s about using their success as a roadmap for your own SEO strategy. Think of it like reverse-engineering their playbook. You’ll uncover their top-performing content, find gaps in your own strategy, and discover new opportunities to outrank them. And the best part? You don’t need expensive tools or a team of SEO experts to do it.

How This Prompt Works

This prompt is designed to scrape and analyze two critical aspects of your competitors’ SEO strategy: keywords and backlinks. Here’s what it helps you uncover:

  • Top-performing keywords: Which search terms are driving the most traffic to their site?
  • Content gaps: What topics are they ranking for that you’re missing?
  • Backlink sources: Where are their most authoritative links coming from?
  • Content formats: Are they using blog posts, videos, or infographics to rank?
  • Authority metrics: How strong is their domain compared to yours?

The output isn’t just a list of data—it’s actionable insights you can use to build a smarter, more effective content strategy.

Why This Matters for Your Business

SEO isn’t just about stuffing keywords into your blog posts. It’s about understanding what your audience is searching for and delivering the best possible answer. When you know which keywords your competitors are ranking for, you can:

  • Create better content that fills gaps they’ve missed.
  • Optimize existing pages to target high-value terms.
  • Build a stronger backlink profile by targeting the same (or better) sources.
  • Plan a data-driven content calendar that prioritizes topics with the highest potential.

For example, let’s say you run a SaaS company in the project management space. You run this prompt and discover that your biggest competitor is ranking for “best free project management tools for startups.” But their content is outdated, and they’re missing key features like integrations with Slack or Notion. That’s your opportunity. You can create a more comprehensive, up-to-date guide and steal their traffic.

Example Output: What You’ll Get

When you run this prompt, you’ll get a structured breakdown of your competitor’s SEO strategy. Here’s what it might look like:

Top Keywords (By Search Volume & Ranking Position)

  • “Best project management tools for remote teams” (Search volume: 5,000/month, Position: #3)
  • “How to use Kanban boards effectively” (Search volume: 3,200/month, Position: #2)
  • “Free vs. paid project management software” (Search volume: 2,800/month, Position: #4)
  • Forbes.com (DA: 95) – Guest post on “Future of Remote Work”
  • HubSpot Blog (DA: 93) – Mention in “Top Tools for Marketing Teams”
  • Reddit (r/projectmanagement) (DA: 85) – Discussion thread linking to their tool

Content Formats That Perform Best

  • Long-form guides (2,000+ words) – Example: “The Ultimate Guide to Agile Project Management”
  • Comparison posts – Example: “Trello vs. Asana: Which is Better for Your Team?”
  • Video tutorials – Example: “How to Set Up Your First Kanban Board in 5 Minutes”

Authority Metrics

  • Domain Authority (DA): 72 (Yours: 58)
  • Referring Domains: 452 (Yours: 210)
  • Top Pages by Traffic: “Best Free Project Management Tools” (12,000 visits/month)

How to Use This Data to Outrank Competitors

Now that you have this information, what do you do with it? Here’s how to turn insights into action:

  1. Fill the content gaps

    • If they’re ranking for “best free tools” but their list is outdated, create a better one.
    • If they’re missing a key feature (like integrations), highlight it in your content.
  2. Steal (and improve) their backlinks

    • Reach out to the same sites that linked to them and pitch your better content.
    • Example: “Hi [Forbes Editor], I noticed you linked to [Competitor]’s guide on remote work. We just published an updated version with new data—would you consider linking to ours?”
  3. Optimize for their top keywords

    • If they’re ranking for “Kanban boards,” create a more in-depth guide or video.
    • Use their keyword clusters to structure your content (e.g., “Kanban vs. Scrum” as a subheading).
  4. Plan your content calendar around high-potential topics

    • Prioritize keywords with high search volume but low competition.
    • Example: If “project management for freelancers” has 3,000 searches/month but only a few decent results, that’s a golden opportunity.

Pro Tips for Maximizing This Prompt

  • Combine with other tools: Use this prompt alongside free tools like Ubersuggest or Google Search Console for deeper insights.
  • Look for “low-hanging fruit”: Target keywords where your competitor ranks #4-#10. These are easier to overtake than #1 spots.
  • Don’t just copy—innovate: If their content is a 2,000-word blog post, create a video or infographic to stand out.
  • Track your progress: Run this prompt every 3 months to see how your rankings compare over time.

The Bottom Line

SEO isn’t a guessing game. The businesses that win are the ones that use data to inform their strategy—not just intuition. This prompt gives you the insights you need to stop playing catch-up and start leading the pack. So go ahead, run it, and see what your competitors are hiding in plain sight. Your next big traffic boost might be just one prompt away.

Prompt #6: Social Media & Community Engagement – Tracking Competitor Presence

Social media isn’t just about posting pretty pictures or funny memes—it’s where your competitors are winning (or losing) customers every single day. If you’re not paying attention to what they’re doing, you’re basically flying blind. Are they posting more often? Getting better engagement? Jumping on trends before you even notice them? This prompt helps you find out—and gives you the insights to outplay them.

Think of it like a spy mission, but for social media. You’re not stealing secrets; you’re gathering intel to make smarter decisions. Whether you’re planning your next campaign, looking for influencer partners, or just trying to keep up with industry chatter, this prompt will show you exactly where your competitors are strong—and where they’re dropping the ball.


What This Prompt Actually Does

This isn’t just about counting likes or followers. A good competitor analysis digs deeper. Here’s what you’ll uncover:

  • Posting frequency and timing – Are they posting daily? At 3 PM when engagement is highest? Or are they inconsistent, giving you an opening?
  • Engagement rates – Not just likes, but real interactions: comments, shares, saves. Which posts are sparking conversations?
  • Content trends – What topics are they focusing on? Are they using videos, carousels, or long-form captions? What’s working (and what’s flopping)?
  • Community responses – How are customers reacting? Are they praising, complaining, or just ignoring? This tells you what your audience actually cares about.
  • Hashtag and keyword strategies – Which hashtags are they using to get discovered? Are they jumping on viral challenges or sticking to niche tags?

For example, if you run a fitness brand and notice a competitor’s workout videos get 10x more shares than their static posts, that’s a clear signal: your audience wants video content. Or if their customer service posts get tons of replies (both good and bad), you know where to focus your own engagement efforts.


How to Use This Data (Without Just Copying)

Okay, so you’ve got the numbers. Now what? Here’s how to turn insights into action:

1. Social Media Planning

  • Beat their posting schedule – If they post at 9 AM and 5 PM, try 11 AM or 7 PM when there’s less noise.
  • Fill content gaps – If they’re all about product shots but ignoring behind-the-scenes content, that’s your chance to stand out.
  • Double down on what works – If their user-generated content (UGC) gets the most engagement, start a hashtag campaign to encourage your own customers to post.

2. Influencer & Partnership Opportunities

  • Spot their collaborators – Who’s tagging them? Who’s sharing their posts? These could be potential partners for you too.
  • Find untapped influencers – If they’re only working with big names, try micro-influencers in your niche—they often have more engaged audiences.
  • Avoid their mistakes – If an influencer they worked with got backlash, steer clear (or at least approach with caution).

3. Crisis & Reputation Management

  • Learn from their PR disasters – Did they handle a customer complaint poorly? Take notes on what not to do.
  • Spot emerging issues – If multiple customers are complaining about the same thing (e.g., shipping delays), fix it before it becomes your problem too.
  • Prepare for trends – If a competitor’s post about a new industry trend is blowing up, you can jump in early with your own take.

Example Output: What You’ll See

When you run this prompt, you’ll get a clear breakdown like this:

Competitor A (Fitness Brand)

  • Posting frequency: 5x/week (mostly Reels and carousels)
  • Top-performing content: Workout tutorials (avg. 12K views, 800+ shares)
  • Engagement rate: 4.2% (industry avg. = 2.8%)
  • Hashtags: #HomeWorkout, #FitnessTips, #NoGymNoProblem
  • Customer sentiment: Mostly positive, but complaints about shipping delays

Competitor B (Athleisure Brand)

  • Posting frequency: 3x/week (mostly static images and Stories)
  • Top-performing content: User-generated content (avg. 5K likes, 300+ comments)
  • Engagement rate: 3.1%
  • Hashtags: #OOTD, #Athleisure, #SustainableFashion
  • Customer sentiment: Mixed—praised for style, criticized for sizing issues

At a glance, you can see: ✅ Competitor A is killing it with video content—time to step up your Reels game. ✅ Competitor B’s UGC strategy is working—maybe you should start a customer spotlight series. ⚠️ Both have shipping/sizing issues—fix yours before customers start complaining.


Here’s the secret weapon: AI can help you anticipate trends, not just react to them. Try these tweaks to your prompt:

  • Add: “Predict 3 emerging social media trends in [your industry] based on competitor activity and current platform updates.”
  • Ask: “What topics are competitors not covering that could be opportunities for us?”
  • Request: “Suggest 5 content ideas that align with trending audio, hashtags, or challenges.”

For example, if you’re in the beauty industry and notice competitors aren’t using TikTok’s new “AI Green Screen” effect, that’s a gap you can fill. Or if LinkedIn is pushing long-form posts but your competitors are still posting short updates, you can own the “thought leadership” space.


Final Thought: Don’t Just Spy—Outmaneuver

Competitor analysis isn’t about copying—it’s about outsmarting. The goal isn’t to do what they’re doing, but to do it better, faster, or differently.

So run the prompt, dig into the data, and ask yourself:

  • Where are they winning? (Can I do it better?)
  • Where are they failing? (Can I fix it for my audience?)
  • What are they missing? (Can I own that space?)

Social media moves fast. The brands that win aren’t the ones with the biggest budgets—they’re the ones who pay attention and act first. Now go get that intel. Your next viral post (or crisis averted) might be hiding in plain sight.

Prompt #7: Sales Funnel & Conversion Tactics – How Competitors Close Deals

Ever wonder why some brands make selling look effortless? It’s not magic—it’s a well-oiled sales funnel. Competitors who convert better aren’t just lucky; they’ve mapped out every step from first click to final purchase. And here’s the good news: you can reverse-engineer their playbook.

This prompt isn’t about copying. It’s about learning what works, spotting gaps in your own strategy, and stealing the best ideas—then making them even better. Ready to see how your competitors turn visitors into paying customers? Let’s break it down.


What This Prompt Reveals (And Why It Matters)

A sales funnel isn’t just a fancy marketing term. It’s the path your customers take—from the moment they hear about you to the second they hit “buy.” The best competitors optimize every stage:

  • Awareness: How do they attract leads? (Ads, SEO, social media?)
  • Consideration: What hooks keep people engaged? (Free trials, demos, case studies?)
  • Decision: How do they push hesitant buyers over the line? (Limited-time offers, testimonials, guarantees?)
  • Retention: What keeps customers coming back? (Loyalty programs, email sequences, upsells?)

Run this prompt, and you’ll get a clear breakdown of their funnel—including where people drop off. (Spoiler: Most leaks happen in the “consideration” stage. More on that later.)


How to Use This Intel (3 Real-World Scenarios)

You’ve got the data. Now what? Here’s how to turn competitor insights into action:

1. Plug the Leaks in Your Funnel

Example: A SaaS competitor’s free trial converts at 22%, but yours sits at 12%. This prompt reveals their secret: a 3-email sequence nudging users to complete setup. You test the same sequence—and boom, your conversions jump to 18%.

Action step: Identify your biggest drop-off point (Google Analytics can help). Then, compare it to your competitor’s approach. Borrow what works.

2. Steal Their Lead Magnets (But Make Them Better)

Example: A fitness brand offers a “7-Day Meal Plan” as a lead magnet. You notice their PDF is basic—just text and stock images. You create a video version with a celebrity chef demo. Your sign-ups double.

Action step: List your competitor’s lead magnets. Ask: How can I make this 10x more valuable?

3. Outmaneuver Their Retargeting

Example: An e-commerce competitor retargets abandoned carts with a 10% discount. You test a different angle: “Your cart expires in 24 hours.” No discount needed—just urgency. Your recovery rate climbs by 30%.

Action step: Note their retargeting ads (Facebook Ad Library is your friend). Test a different hook, offer, or CTA.


What the Output Looks Like (And How to Read It)

Here’s a simplified version of what this prompt might return:

Competitor: [Brand X] Funnel Stage: Awareness

  • Tactic: Facebook ads with “How to [solve pain point]” videos.
  • Drop-off: 60% of viewers don’t click.
  • Opportunity: Test shorter videos (under 15 seconds) or a stronger CTA.

Funnel Stage: Consideration

  • Tactic: Free webinar with a “limited seats” countdown.
  • Drop-off: 40% leave during the registration page.
  • Opportunity: Simplify the form (ask for email only).

Funnel Stage: Decision

  • Tactic: “Last chance” email with a 24-hour discount.
  • Conversion: 15% of leads buy.
  • Opportunity: Test a “scarcity + social proof” combo (e.g., “Only 3 left at this price!” + customer testimonials).

Pro tip: Don’t just copy the tactics. Look for patterns. If three competitors use urgency in their emails, it’s probably working. Double down on that.


The Secret Sauce: A/B Testing Their Tactics

Here’s the fun part: You don’t have to guess what works. Test it.

  1. Pick one tactic (e.g., their email subject line: “Your [product] is waiting!”).
  2. Create a variation (e.g., “You left something behind…”).
  3. Split-test (send 50% of your list each version).
  4. Track results (open rates, click-throughs, conversions).
  5. Scale the winner.

Example: A competitor’s checkout page has a progress bar. You add one to yours—and see a 12% lift in completions.


When to Ignore the Data (Yes, Really)

Not everything your competitor does is worth stealing. Watch for:

  • Outdated tactics: If their last blog post is from 2021, their SEO strategy might be stale.
  • Mismatched audience: A B2B brand’s LinkedIn ads won’t work for your DTC e-commerce store.
  • Overused gimmicks: If every competitor offers a 10% discount, it’s not a differentiator—it’s table stakes.

Rule of thumb: If it feels sleazy (e.g., fake countdown timers), skip it. Your goal isn’t to trick customers—it’s to serve them better.


Your Turn: Run the Prompt

Here’s the exact prompt to plug into Perplexity (or your AI tool of choice):

*“Analyze [Competitor Name]’s sales funnel. Break down their tactics at each stage (awareness, consideration, decision, retention). Include:

  • Lead magnets and entry points
  • Email sequences and retargeting ads
  • Conversion triggers (discounts, urgency, social proof)
  • Drop-off points and potential leaks Provide actionable insights for improving my own funnel.”*

Pro tip: Add specifics. For example:

  • “Focus on their free trial flow for SaaS users.”
  • “Compare their checkout page to mine.”

The Bottom Line

Your competitors aren’t smarter—they’re just more methodical. They’ve tested, tweaked, and optimized their funnels until they work. Now, you can do the same—without the trial and error.

So, which competitor will you analyze first? Pick one, run the prompt, and start closing more deals. Your pipeline (and your revenue) will thank you.

Prompt #8: Partnerships & Integrations – Who Competitors Work With (And Why)

Partnerships are like secret weapons in business. While you’re busy improving your product, your competitors might be teaming up with other companies to reach more customers, add new features, or even block you from entering their space. The question is: Who are they working with, and how can you use that information to your advantage?

This prompt helps you uncover the hidden alliances that make your competitors stronger. Maybe they have a powerful integration with a tool you’ve never considered. Or perhaps they’re running co-marketing campaigns with influencers in your industry. Once you know who they’re working with, you can spot gaps in your own strategy—or even reach out to the same partners for your own collaborations.

What This Prompt Reveals (And Why It Matters)

When you run this prompt, you’ll get a clear picture of:

  • Integrations: Which apps, plugins, or platforms your competitors connect with (e.g., Slack, Zapier, Shopify).
  • Affiliate programs: Who’s promoting them—and how much they’re paying.
  • Co-marketing efforts: Joint webinars, guest posts, or social media takeovers with other brands.
  • Reseller or white-label partnerships: Companies that sell their product under a different name.

Why does this matter? Because partnerships can make or break a business. A single integration with a popular tool can bring in thousands of new users. A well-placed affiliate deal can flood a competitor with leads. And if they’re working with influencers or media outlets, they’re getting exposure you might be missing.

How to Use This Information (With Real Examples)

Let’s say you run a project management tool. You run the prompt and discover that your biggest competitor integrates with Notion, Google Drive, and Microsoft Teams—but not with Trello or Asana. That’s a gap you can fill. You could:

  1. Build your own integration with Trello or Asana to attract users who need that connection.
  2. Reach out to the same partners (like Notion or Google Drive) to see if they’d work with you too.
  3. Find new partners they haven’t tapped into yet—maybe a niche tool like ClickUp or Airtable.

Here’s another example: You notice a competitor has an affiliate program paying $50 per referral, while yours only pays $20. That’s a problem. Either you need to increase your payouts, or you need to find affiliates who care more about your product than just the money.

Pro Tip: Turn Their Partners Into Your Partners

One of the smartest moves you can make is reaching out to the same companies your competitors work with. Here’s how to do it without sounding desperate:

  • For integrations: “We noticed you integrate with [Competitor]. We’d love to explore a similar partnership—here’s how our tool could add value to your users.”
  • For affiliates: “We saw you promote [Competitor]. We’d love to offer you a higher commission or exclusive perks for promoting us instead.”
  • For co-marketing: “We loved your recent webinar with [Competitor]. We’d love to collaborate on something similar—maybe a case study or a joint giveaway?”

The key is to show them what’s in it for them. Maybe you have a bigger audience. Maybe your product is easier to sell. Or maybe you’re willing to offer better terms. Either way, don’t be afraid to make the first move.

What to Do Next

Now that you know how to uncover your competitors’ partnerships, here’s your action plan:

  1. Run the prompt and list out all their integrations, affiliates, and co-marketing efforts.
  2. Compare it to your own—where are they stronger? Where can you improve?
  3. Pick one gap and make a plan to fill it (e.g., build a new integration, launch an affiliate program).
  4. Reach out to at least 3 partners they work with and pitch your own collaboration.

Partnerships aren’t just about who you know—they’re about who your competitors don’t know yet. The more you uncover, the more opportunities you’ll find to grow faster than they do. So go ahead, run the prompt, and start building your own network of allies. Your business will thank you.

Prompt #9: Future Roadmap Predictions – Where Competitors Are Headed Next

Ever wonder how some companies always seem one step ahead? They don’t have a crystal ball—they just know where to look. Competitors leave clues everywhere about their next big move. The question is: Are you paying attention?

This prompt isn’t about guessing. It’s about predicting with data. Think of it like detective work. You’re piecing together hints from job postings, patent filings, and investor updates to see what’s coming next. And when you know what’s coming, you can prepare—or even beat them to it.

How to Spot the Clues (Without a Spy Network)

You don’t need insider info to see where a competitor is headed. Here’s what to watch:

  • Hiring trends: Are they hiring more engineers? That could mean a new product. More salespeople? Maybe they’re expanding into new markets.
  • Patent filings: Companies patent ideas years before they launch them. A quick search can reveal what they’re working on.
  • Investor updates: If they’re raising money, they’re probably planning something big. Look for press releases or funding announcements.
  • Customer complaints: What are people saying on review sites? If users keep asking for a feature, competitors might be building it.

For example, if a SaaS company suddenly hires 10 AI specialists, they’re probably working on AI-powered features. If a retail brand starts filing patents for drone delivery, they might be testing it soon. These aren’t secrets—they’re just signals waiting to be read.

Why This Matters (And How to Use It)

Knowing where competitors are headed helps you in two big ways:

  1. Stay ahead of industry shifts. If you see a trend coming, you can adapt before it hits. No more playing catch-up.
  2. Preempt their moves. If you know they’re launching a new product, you can adjust your pricing, messaging, or even release something similar first.

Let’s say you run an e-commerce store. You notice a competitor is hiring logistics experts in Europe. That could mean they’re expanding into EU markets. Now you can decide: Do you expand too? Do you focus on a different region? Do you improve your shipping times to stay competitive?

What the Output Looks Like (And How to Act on It)

When you run this prompt, you’ll get predictions like:

  • “Competitor X is likely launching a mobile app in Q3 2024.” (Based on hiring mobile devs and patent filings.)
  • “Competitor Y is expanding into Asia.” (They’re hiring local sales teams and filing trademarks in Japan.)
  • “Competitor Z is testing a subscription model.” (They’ve been asking customers about pricing in surveys.)

But here’s the catch: AI can give you the data, but you need to interpret it. That’s where expert interviews and industry reports come in. Talk to people in the field. Read analyst predictions. Combine AI insights with real-world knowledge to make smarter decisions.

Pro Tips to Get Even Better Results

Want to take this further? Try these:

  • Set up Google Alerts for competitor names + keywords like “hiring,” “patent,” or “funding.”
  • Follow their leadership team on LinkedIn. Executives often drop hints about future plans.
  • Check their earnings calls. Public companies share a lot about their roadmap in these meetings.
  • Look at their supplier relationships. If they’re ordering more materials, they might be scaling up production.

The best part? You don’t need a big budget to do this. A little curiosity and the right prompts can give you the same insights as a Fortune 500 intelligence team.

So, what’s your next move? Pick a competitor, run the prompt, and start connecting the dots. The future doesn’t have to be a mystery—you just need to know where to look.

Prompt #10: Competitive Benchmarking – Putting It All Together

You’ve collected data on competitor pricing, features, ads, and partnerships. Now what? Scattered insights won’t help your business grow—you need a clear picture. That’s where competitive benchmarking comes in. Think of it like a report card for your business, but instead of grades, you get actionable steps to outperform your rivals.

This isn’t just about knowing where you stand. It’s about spotting gaps, doubling down on what works, and fixing what doesn’t. Whether you’re preparing for a quarterly review or planning next year’s strategy, a well-built competitor scorecard turns raw data into real decisions.


What Exactly Is a Competitor Scorecard?

A competitor scorecard is a simple but powerful tool. It compares your business against key rivals across important metrics—like pricing, features, customer reviews, and marketing strategies. The goal? To see where you’re winning, where you’re falling behind, and what you can do about it.

Here’s what a basic scorecard might include:

  • Pricing: How your prices stack up against competitors.
  • Features: What they offer that you don’t (and vice versa).
  • Customer Sentiment: What people love (or hate) about their products.
  • Marketing: Their ad strategies, social media presence, and content approach.
  • Performance: Website traffic, conversion rates, and sales data (if available).

The best part? You don’t need fancy tools to start. A spreadsheet works fine—just organize the data in a way that makes sense for your business.


When Should You Use Competitive Benchmarking?

This isn’t a one-time task. The best businesses revisit their scorecards regularly. Here are a few key moments when benchmarking pays off:

1. Quarterly Business Reviews

Every three months, sit down and compare your progress against competitors. Are they gaining market share? Have they launched new features? Use this data to adjust your strategy before it’s too late.

2. Investor Updates

Investors don’t just want to hear about your growth—they want to know how you’re doing compared to the competition. A well-prepared scorecard shows you’re on top of industry trends and ready to capitalize on opportunities.

3. Strategic Planning

Before setting next year’s goals, run a benchmarking exercise. If a competitor is crushing it with a certain feature, maybe it’s time to invest in something similar. If they’re struggling with customer service, that’s your chance to shine.

4. Product Launches

About to release a new product? Check what competitors are offering first. If their version has a feature customers keep asking for, you might need to adjust your roadmap.


Example Output: From Data to Action

Let’s say you run an e-commerce store selling fitness gear. After running a benchmarking analysis, here’s what your scorecard might reveal:

SWOT Analysis

  • Strengths: Your website loads faster than competitors, and your return policy is more customer-friendly.
  • Weaknesses: Competitors offer free shipping on orders over $50—you don’t.
  • Opportunities: A rival’s best-selling product is out of stock. Time to promote your alternative.
  • Threats: A new competitor is undercutting your prices by 20%.

KPI Comparisons

MetricYour BusinessCompetitor ACompetitor B
Average Order Value$75$90$65
Website Traffic50K/month80K/month30K/month
Customer Rating4.7/54.2/54.9/5

Actionable Recommendations

  • Test free shipping on orders over $50 to see if it boosts sales.
  • Highlight your fast website in marketing—speed matters to customers.
  • Monitor Competitor B’s high ratings—what are they doing right? Can you replicate it?

Pro Tips: Automate Your Benchmarking

Manually tracking competitors is time-consuming. The good news? You can automate much of it with AI and tools. Here’s how:

1. Set Up Google Alerts

Get notified whenever a competitor is mentioned online. Just enter their brand name, and Google will send you updates.

2. Use AI Tools for Summaries

Tools like Jasper or Copy.ai can analyze competitor data and generate insights. For example, you can feed it a competitor’s pricing page and ask: “Summarize the key differences between their pricing and ours. What are the biggest gaps?“

3. Build a Live Dashboard

Tools like Google Data Studio or Tableau can pull data from multiple sources (like Google Analytics, social media, and ad platforms) into one dashboard. Update it weekly, and you’ll always have fresh insights.

4. Track Competitor Ads Automatically

Tools like AdSpy or Facebook Ad Library let you see what ads competitors are running. Set up alerts for new campaigns, and you’ll never miss a trend.


Final Thought: Benchmarking Isn’t About Copying—It’s About Outsmarting

Competitive benchmarking isn’t about mimicking what others do. It’s about understanding the landscape so you can make smarter moves. Maybe you’ll find a gap in the market no one’s filling. Maybe you’ll realize your pricing is way off. Or maybe you’ll discover that your biggest competitor is actually struggling in an area where you excel.

The key is to turn data into decisions. Start small—pick one competitor, run a quick analysis, and see what you learn. Over time, you’ll build a system that keeps you ahead of the game. And that’s how you win.

Advanced Tips: Automating & Scaling Competitor Analysis with AI

You’ve run a few competitor analysis prompts. You’ve found some great insights. Now what? If you stop here, you’re leaving money on the table. The real power of AI isn’t just in one-time research—it’s in making competitor analysis a habit, something that runs in the background while you focus on growing your business.

Think about it. Your competitors aren’t standing still. They’re changing prices, launching new ads, and tweaking their websites every single day. If you only check on them once a month, you’re always playing catch-up. But what if you could get alerts when they make a big move? What if your AI could tell you exactly when to act—and when to ignore the noise?

That’s where automation comes in. Let’s break down how to turn AI from a one-time tool into your 24/7 competitive intelligence machine.


Set Up Recurring Prompts for Real-Time Monitoring

The first step is simple: stop treating AI like a search engine. Instead, think of it like a virtual assistant that never sleeps. Here’s how to make it work for you:

  1. Pick 2-3 key competitors – Don’t try to track everyone. Focus on the ones that matter most (the ones stealing your customers or growing faster than you).
  2. Schedule weekly or monthly prompts – Use tools like Perplexity’s API (if available) or a simple automation tool like Zapier to run the same prompts on a schedule. For example:
    • “What’s new on [Competitor X]’s pricing page this week?”
    • “Summarize any changes to [Competitor Y]’s Facebook ads in the last 7 days.”
  3. Get alerts for big changes – Set up a system where the AI flags only the important updates. For example:
    • “If [Competitor Z] lowers their price by more than 10%, notify me immediately.”
    • “If they add a new feature, summarize what it does and how it compares to ours.”

Pro tip: If you’re using a tool like Perplexity, save your best prompts as “favorites” so you can reuse them quickly. Some AI tools even let you set up “watchlists” for specific competitors—use them!


Connect AI Insights to Your Business Tools

Getting insights is great. But if they just sit in a document or an email, they’re useless. The real magic happens when you act on them. Here’s how to integrate AI with the tools you already use:

  • CRM (HubSpot, Salesforce, etc.) – Automatically add competitor insights to customer records. For example, if a competitor launches a discount, your sales team can see it right in the CRM and adjust their pitch.
  • BI Tools (Google Data Studio, Tableau) – Pull AI-generated competitor data into dashboards. Imagine seeing your market share and competitor pricing trends in one place.
  • Marketing Platforms (Meta Ads, Google Ads) – Use AI insights to tweak your ad copy. If a competitor’s ads are getting more engagement, your AI can suggest changes to your own campaigns.

Example: A SaaS company used AI to track competitor pricing. When a rival dropped their price, the AI automatically updated their sales team’s battle cards and adjusted their ad bids to stay competitive. Result? They kept their customers—and even won a few new ones.


Avoid These Common AI Pitfalls

AI is powerful, but it’s not perfect. Here are the mistakes to watch out for:

  • Over-relying on AI – AI is great for spotting patterns, but it can’t replace human judgment. Always double-check the insights before making big decisions.
  • Confirmation bias – If you want to believe a competitor is weak, your AI might show you data that supports that. Stay open to surprises.
  • Ignoring the “why” – AI can tell you what a competitor is doing, but not always why. Dig deeper. For example, if they raise prices, is it because of supply issues or a new premium strategy?

Quick fix: Always ask follow-up questions. If your AI says, “Competitor X just launched a new feature,” don’t stop there. Ask:

  • “Why did they launch this feature now?”
  • “How are customers reacting?”
  • “What does this mean for our product roadmap?”

The Future of AI in Competitor Analysis

AI is getting smarter—fast. Here’s what to expect in the next 5 years:

  • Predictive insights – Instead of just telling you what competitors are doing now, AI will predict their next moves. For example: “Based on hiring trends, Competitor Y will likely expand into Europe in 6 months.”
  • Real-time ad monitoring – AI will track competitor ads as they launch and suggest counter-strategies in real time.
  • Voice and video analysis – AI will analyze competitor webinars, podcasts, and YouTube videos to extract key insights (e.g., “They’re focusing on sustainability in their next campaign.”).
  • Automated A/B testing – AI won’t just tell you what competitors are doing—it’ll run experiments to see what works best against them.

What this means for you: The businesses that win won’t be the ones with the most data. They’ll be the ones who use AI to act faster than their competitors.


Your Next Steps

You don’t need to do everything at once. Start small:

  1. Pick one competitor and set up a recurring prompt to track their pricing or ads.
  2. Connect one tool (like your CRM or ad platform) to your AI insights.
  3. Run a test—see how the insights help you make a decision (e.g., adjust pricing, tweak an ad, or add a feature).

The goal isn’t to replace your brain with AI. It’s to give yourself a superpower—the ability to see what competitors are doing before they do it. And that’s how you stay ahead.

Conclusion: Turning Competitor Insights into Actionable Strategies

You’ve just explored 10 powerful prompts that can transform how you analyze competitors. These aren’t just random questions—they’re your secret weapon for uncovering hidden opportunities. Whether you’re tracking pricing changes, dissecting ad strategies, or predicting future moves, these prompts give you the clarity to make smarter decisions. The best part? You don’t need a fancy tool or a data science degree to get started. Just pick one prompt, run it, and see what insights pop up.

From Data to Action: A Simple Roadmap

Now that you have the insights, what’s next? Here’s how to turn them into real results:

  1. Short-term wins (this week):

    • Pick one competitor and run 2-3 prompts (e.g., pricing + ad strategy).
    • Compare their approach to yours—where are they stronger? Where can you improve?
    • Adjust one thing immediately (e.g., tweak a product description, test a new ad angle).
  2. Long-term strategy (next 3-6 months):

    • Build a competitor tracking system (even a simple spreadsheet works).
    • Set up monthly reviews to spot trends before they become threats.
    • Use insights to guide bigger decisions—like expanding into new markets or launching a feature your competitors lack.

Remember, competitor analysis isn’t about copying—it’s about outsmarting. If a rival is dominating with a certain ad style, don’t just mimic it. Ask: How can we do it better? Maybe it’s a more compelling offer, a sleeker design, or a smarter targeting strategy. The goal is to learn from them, then leap ahead.

Beyond Perplexity: Experiment with AI Tools

Perplexity is a great starting point, but don’t stop there. Tools like Jasper, Copy.ai, or even Google’s Bard can help you dig deeper. For example:

  • Use Jasper to generate competitor-focused blog posts or social media content.
  • Try Copy.ai to craft product descriptions that outshine your rivals.
  • Leverage Google Trends or SEMrush to spot gaps in their SEO strategy.

The key is to test and iterate. Not every tool will work for your niche, but the more you experiment, the faster you’ll find what does. Think of AI as your research assistant—it won’t replace your judgment, but it’ll save you hours of grunt work.

The Power of Staying Ahead

Here’s the truth: Competitor analysis isn’t a one-time task. It’s an ongoing habit. The businesses that thrive aren’t the ones with the best products—they’re the ones that never stop learning. They track shifts in the market, adapt quickly, and always stay one step ahead.

So, where do you go from here? Start small. Pick one competitor, run a prompt, and see what you discover. Then, take action. Because in business, knowledge is only powerful if you use it. And the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll see the results. Ready to turn insights into growth? Your competitors won’t know what hit them.

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Written by

KeywordShift Team

Experts in SaaS growth, pipeline acceleration, and measurable results.