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Posted on October 24, 2007 by Jason Petrina | Posted under Business
Tips for getting started in the export business
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Some of the most time tested tips for exporting products to overseas markets include: Make the initial contact The first step the smart business owner should make is to contact the U.S. Consulate or Embassy in the country to which they wish to export their products. This step is absolutely vital, because the foreign embassy or consulate is privy to a wealth of information that will be vital to any business decisions which must be made going forward. For instance, the trade ministers who work for the foreign embassy or consulate are tasked with helping companies of all sizes gain a foothold in that foreign market, and they have access to a wealth of market data, demographic information and other vital information about the foreign marketplace. When contacting the foreign consulate, it is important to include as much information as possible to facilitate a timely response. At a minimum, the information you send should include the name of the company, a brief overview of what the company does, the company's address and the company contact information. It is important to establish whether or not the consulate or embassy accepts requests via email. If they do not, be sure that the letter you fax or mail is on your company letterhead. Know what to ask for When contacting the U.S. Consulate or embassy in the chosen export market, the business owner should ask for a list of potential buyers, and recommendations for entry strategies into the local market. The answer to these questions will have a huge impact on how the business owner approaches the foreign market. For instance, is the best approach to use a major distributor, a trading house, or an individual agent? Which types of trade shows and promotional events will provide the best return on investment? Get an export directory Other countries have their embassies and consulates in the United States, just as the U.S. has embassies and Consulates in foreign lands. The foreign trade commissioners in those embassies offer export directories of products and supplies from their homeland, and in some instances they offer lists of buyers for certain industries as well. As with contacting U.S. Consulates and embassies in foreign lands, it is important to communicate on a professional level when contacting these foreign trade commissions. It is vital for the business owner to provide a professional and competent demeanor. Be creative The savvy business owner should consider making contact with other, non-competing companies, who have attempted to tap the global marketplace. For instance, if you heard that a company in your town has secured a contract with an Asian company, give the company president or executive a call and ask him or her to share the story of how they made the transition to the global marketplace. Those lucky and smart business owners may even be able to get the government to pick up the tab for a trade mission to the export nation of choice. Local, state and federal government officials are always trying to get their local products in the hands of those around the world, and to this end they often embark on trade missions to foreign markets. Business owners should contact their senator or representative to inquire about joining them on the next trade mission. About The Author: Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com |
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