Successfully marketing your product in today's global market takes more than local advertising and a business card. Thanks to the technological breakthroughs in recent years in online communication, it is now easier than ever to make yourself, your business, and your product line known and available to established professionals who can help you ship your products all over the world. However, you must first find these professionals and develop a positive business relationship; this task has changed since the days of meetings over coffee that ended in handshakes. These people may exist anywhere in the world, and it takes strategic communication tactics to build these bonds.
Business To Business Directories
The internet is rife with business to business directories, and it is imperative that your business is listed in as many directories that are appropriate to your line of business as possible. At the same time, you should be constantly perusing these lists, looking for importers and exporters that work with businesses like your own. Do not wait for them to find you; reach out to any professionals who look like they might offer an advantage to your sales. The growth and development of internet commerce has led to the development of many businesses like these, many of them privately held, and a few strong relationships can mean a hefty increase in profits for you.
Embassies
If there is a particular country where you would like to be doing business, you can reach out to the appropriate contact at the American embassy in that country. This is not as strange as it sounds; we think of embassies as entities designed to manage political agreements, legal issues, and ambassador and VIP travel in and out of that nation; however, these embassies exist to support all American interests within that country. There will be an office for international commerce, where you will be able to ensure that your business is listed in directories there, and who may be able to put you in touch with reputable agents there.
Trade Shows
Virtual and face to face trade shows in your particular industry are a must. Virtual trade shows occur online at a host site, and of course, face to face shows require that you have a physical presence. Professional agents, both private and public, troll these shows looking for new clients, and you can meet a number of people and build important relationships by utilizing these venues.
Business To Business Marketplaces
Much like virtual trade shows, business to business marketplaces exist online, where businesses are invited to post information about their products and services so that other business owners and stakeholders can view it. Networking and relationship building occur here, leading to future referral business and alliances that are beneficial to all involved. This is a great way to put your business and product line in front of a reputable importer and/or exporter who can help you sell your products internationally. This kind of relationship is extremely profitable to both parties, help each of you grow and develop business in potentially new markets.
