For many companies that have chosen to expand their business, this can mean entering into new markets, not just at home, but internationally. Making the transition to an international business can open the door to all kinds of possibilities, not to mention new revenue streams that can prove to be lucrative. But it’s not always an easy path and you can count on there being a fair number of challenges and issues you’ll need to overcome.
One thing you don’t want to lose sight of as you expand is how to ensure your newfound international customers feel appreciated and feel compelled to do business with you. Here are some basic tips that can help you achieve that goal.
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Begin with Market and Customer Research
The first step when expanding internationally should always be to take your time and conduct thorough market and customer research. You cannot assume you know the market and the customers, nor can you assume that what works at home will work overseas. You need to start strong, which means offering a business, products/services and messaging that resonates with the local customers.
This isn’t always a quick or easy task, so be prepared to spend time and effort on the research portion of the expansion. It will pay off when you’re able to acquire new customers faster and easier thanks to your marketing strategy.
Ensure Documents are Translated
Because you are working with overseas customers/clients, there will most likely be a language barrier. You can’t present clients with contracts and documents in your language and expect them to figure it out on their own. Instead, you can use a translation agency to accurately and quickly offer translated copies. For example, Global Voices is a translation company that features interpreters and translation service for its customers. Besides document translation, they can also provide face to face, video call or telephone interpretation services. It’s all about making the customer feel valued, appreciated, and comfortable doing business with you.
Give International Customers Exclusives – Generate Buzz
For customers who are located outside where the company is based, it can feel like they are an afterthought. You want every customer to feel important and valued, no matter where they reside. So, why not feature some product exclusives and special deals that only your international customers can access? This sort of marketing tends to generate buzz, so it’s a good way to get people talking about your business.
Shipping Will Factor into Purchase Decisions
Customers are also very wary anytime there is a shipping fee, especially if it’s high. You want to do everything you can to offer fast, efficient, secure, safe, and affordable shipping. That may mean offering free shipping only once they spend a minimum amount, or perhaps you’ll offer free shipping on all purchases; however, this could get pricey for the company. Customers should also be able to track their shipping so they know exactly where the product is and when it will arrive.
While these are just a few tips, they can act as a good starting point. It will at least help you to lay a solid footing as you do your best to find customers.
