So last month I had this idea for a subscription service that sends locally sourced snacks. I mentioned it to a guy I know from a networking group, mostly just to get his take. He seemed super interested, asked a bunch of questions about pricing and suppliers. I didn't think much of it. Fast forward to yesterday: he posts on LinkedIn that he's launching almost the exact same thing. Same niche, similar branding, even the same tagline I had in my head. I haven't even built a prototype yet. I feel like such an idiot for running my mouth. Has this happened to anyone else? How do you deal with the anger?
Startup
I regret telling someone about a business idea before testing it
That stings. But honestly, ideas are cheap. Execution is what matters. He might have posted about it, but will he actually follow through? Most people don't.
Oof. Been there. I told a 'friend' about a freelancE service I was planning, and she started offering the same thing a week later. I was furious. But then I realized she had no clue how to actually deliver it. She gave up after two months. You might be better off just focusing on your own version ngl.
Never tell anyone your business ideas unless you're legally protected or they're your mom. And even then, maybe not.
I know, I know. Lesson learned. The thing is, I've been sitting on this for a while and hadn't done done anything because of my day job. Now I feel like I have to rush to market, which is probably a bad idea.
Rushing is worse than being second. Let him test the market for you. If it works, you can learn from his Mistakes. If it flops, you saved yourself the trouble.
Sucks, but you can't do much about it now. Focus on what you can control: make your version better. Maybe he's not even good at marketing. Have you looked at his website? Probably a template ngl.
You should leave a comment on his post like 'Great idea, where'd you get it?' and see if he responds. Petty? Yes. Satisfying? Also yes.
I did something similar once. Told a coworker about a side project and she copied it. I didn't have the capital to launch anyway. Turned out she failed because she had no idea how to handle logistics. It's not about the idea; it's about the execution. And mindset. You can't let this stop you.
Thanks, all. I'm trying to see it as a kick in the pants to actually start doing instead of just talking. I've already started sketching out a more niche angle that he probably won't touch. But yeah, still bitter.
Good. Use the bitterness as fuel. Also, consider an NDA next time you need to talk to someone. But honestly, most people won't sign one for a casual chat.
I wouldn't worry. Most of these 'launches' are just LinkedIn posts with no substance. If he actually builds it, then you can worry. Until then, keep building.
Also, check if he actually has the snack sourcing figured out. That's a hard part. If he doesn't, he's just another guy with a logo.
you can also just let it go. Holding onto anger only hurts you. Easier said than done, though.
Or you could start a competing service with a slightly different name and undercut him. But that's just me.