Branching into export is the best way to expand your business because it enables you to unlock opportunities in new markets. It is the right time to foray into the global markets because the post-pandemic era spells bigger and better things for business owners looking to go overseas. Countless companies are already on the bandwagon, and more are joining the race. The journey sounds risky, but you can go far ahead of your revenue and profitability goals if you get export right.
The step can help your business in more than one way, from reducing production costs by economies of scale to extending your customer base, reducing dependence on the local market, moderating seasonal fluctuations, and accelerating overall growth. But these benefits boil down to getting a good start and steering your business in the right direction. Although the first step can be daunting, you can make it big with some guidance and insights. Let us share the best business expansion advice for exporters in 2022.
Prioritize necessity and quality
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of getting a good start with exports is to choose relevant markets. Primarily, it is about ensuring that you can cater to a necessity in the local market. You must understand the pain points of the buyers and ensure that your offerings address them. Also, check that your product meets the regulations of the country and does not fall into a restricted or illegal category. Besides demand and regulations, product quality is the key to success for export companies. Quality of products is vital as it does more than boost sales. It gives your brand a competitive advantage and enhances your image and reputation.
Adapt your offerings to the target markets
When it comes to exports, economic and cultural variations make markets differ from each other. Not paying attention to these fine points can set your business on the wrong track. You must dig deep to understand these differences and align your product design and marketing strategy accordingly. Even a small variation in your core offering is often enough to make it saleable in an international market. Be ready to invest effort into research and create a perfect strategy to win the target market.
Form valuable partnerships
Breaking into a new foreign market alone is challenging, but you can overcome the stressors by forming valuable partnerships. For instance, you can collaborate with a local lawyer to stay ahead of the legal regulations and compliance guidelines. Likewise, check with a marketing expert to create a viable branding plan. Most importantly, collaborate with an experienced customs brokerage firm to keep your documents, duty payments, and HS codes on track. Finding and working with partners who know the local market gives you confidence and better chances of success. You can even build a team of international experts to set your business up for long-term growth and sustainability. Â
Leverage government support
Most governments go the extra mile to provide support and incentives to exporters as an effort to boost the local economy. The Small Business Administration (SBA) in the US offers training, recommendations, counseling, and financing support to small exporters. The Chinese government inactivates exporters by giving them rebates or allowing refunds of consumption tax and value-added tax (VAT) on eligible products. Check the support options offered by your government before diving in. You will surely be surprised by the kind of support at hand.
Prioritize good customer services
The export domain is competitive, and you will probably have to beat competing businesses offering similar products and services in local markets. You cannot expect to compete much on products and prices because these businesses will be at par on both fronts. But good customer service can help you acquire new buyers and retain them for the long haul despite the competition in the market. They may even do their bit to boost your brand with word-of-mouth recommendations. Study the market norms and customer expectations to create a winning customer experience strategy with excellent services and support. Commit to following up on feedback and improving your services over time.
Expanding your business through global exports is an excellent idea, and now is the best time to start. You can make the most of the opportunity by picking the right market and planning the initiative strategically. But you cannot take things for granted because the export domain is complicated and competitive. A small mistake can mess up all the hard work. However, you can follow these expert tips to simplify the process and beat the competition.
