7 Best Practices For Global Business Communications

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As communication technologies become steadily more comprehensive and intuitive, companies looking to expand globally in 2014 will have fewer logistical problems reaching out to other nations.

The benefits could be vast. Think about the potential advantages for your firm as you read about the following best practices.

1. B2B

Global expansion can create several advantages for B2B companies. Working with businesses in other nations can help your company perceive your industry and markets differently; it will likely inform your decisions in the future.

Some of your companys functions may be more effectively performed overseas by outsourcing at least part of the work, or collaborating with foreign entities. Certain other nations offer breaking innovations and publications on topics which that might involve your business. These are resources that domestic companies can easily miss out on.

2. B2C

Expanding into new markets overseas can mean great things for B2C companies as well. Foreign customers and clients can be major brand influencers across the globe.

For example, if your latest gadget impresses techie customers in Japan or Germany, that can have a huge effect on the credibility of your product in other nations. Similarly, if your fashion brand sells in Paris or Milan, youre golden almost anywhere else.

Foreign loyalty and customer feedback can also make for more feedback that has a great impact and may inform future choices in marketing and manufacturing. More access to new customers means more leads, conversions, and revenue.

There are billions of people on Earth beyond the hundreds of millions you can reach domestically. Opening your company to those possibilities could could have an astonishing effect on your bottom line.

3. Market targeting

Communication can be significantly different when you work with people in other cultures. Whether your company is targeting other firms or potential consumers, its important to understand their needs and values.

4. Etiquette and netiquette

Individuals at companies in other overseas locales have immensely different expectations for greetings and farewells, proper conduct in business meetings, and other situations. Knowing how to say hello, who speaks first, and what to leave behind can be critical.

Some cultures expect a gift to be brought to a hosted conference or meeting, while others might view this practice as tawdry. Similarly, some cultures think nothing of consuming a substantial amount of alcohol during a business dinner, while others wouldnt so much as touch a glass of wine.

Knowing the level of conservative behavior expected when visiting or entertaining individuals from another culture is very important. Working with customers and clients in international locations via the Web can require the same adherence to etiquette.