Going Global: 10 Secrets to Success
The sky is the limit when looking at the global marketplace. Are you ready to take the leap?
By Susan Baka
Globalization and advances in technology have created a huge world market. There are many opportunities to grow business that women can take advantage of, regardless of your size. Even if you are a small, home-based business, the beauty of using the Web to do international business is that no one will ever know that you could be in front of a computer in your slippers!
Although exporting may seem complex and daunting at first, the rewards reaped can be well worth the time, effort and expense. Here are some tips to help you navigate your way successfully:
1. Do your homework. This includes researching your target market and potential customers, which you can do through the Internet, trade publications and associations, and government departments. Starting with the Canadian market is often a logical first step; in addition to
Canada’s close proximity and similar language and culture, it is the
U.S.’s largest trading partner. In fact, cross-border trade between the two countries is about $2 billion per day!
2. Take advantage of government resources. The U.S. Department of Commerce International Trade Administration manages www.export.gov. This site is in collaboration with 19 federal agencies that offer export assistance programs and services, from market research and trade leads to export finance information. You can also call the
Trade Information Center at 1-800-USA-TRADE (1-800-872-8723) or email tic@ita.doc.gov with any questions you may have. And check out www.businesswomenintrade.gc.ca , a Canadian government site for women exporters, which has many tips, resources and profiles.
To read the other Eight Secrets, check out the Winter 2008 Issue of WE Magazine for Women.
