You want to learn how to grow your business internationally. Then this Google training is for you. Learn how to find new markets and sell your products and services to customers around the world. The content is free and worth checking out, don't miss it.
First topic discussed in this Google training: international marketing
When you want to sell abroad, it is important to use a global strategy that starts with localization and takes into account the real needs of your users. Please note: localization is not just about translation. Localization is the translation and adaptation of content in order to create an emotional and trusting connection with foreign customers. Effective localization improves a company's ability to operate in international markets.
Therefore, all businesses need a multilingual website with content tailored to the country and target market in which they want to operate. IT is essential, worldwide, that your content is correctly translated into the original language of your future customers.
Ultimately, only a thorough market analysis can determine the direction of effective international marketing. First of all, of course, there are strategic language barriers to consider.
Translation at the service of your development
In an environment where there are local experts, you can benefit from quality translation services and work with local terminology. On the other hand, overcoming this barrier allows you to analyze in detail the characteristics of your customers, to define an international strategy for each market and to coordinate the process of internationalization.
Besides these practical considerations, careful preparation of the markets you want to enter and the types of products you want to sell facilitates this process. It is advisable to start with countries where the language and culture are similar and gradually overcome the obstacles. This will make it easier, but not impossible, to penetrate foreign markets. It will also facilitate access to foreign markets. At the end of this article, you will find a link to Google training that will help you get started quickly.
How to make yourself understood abroad?
This subject is covered in section 3 of the Google training which I invite you to explore. Translation errors can quickly damage a company's reputation and jeopardize your image. When trying to break into new markets, giving the impression of amateurism is not a good idea.
Very often, the translation of a website is not enough. The look and feel of your website can have a huge impact on your success abroad and set you apart from your competition. So how do you achieve this and optimize the quality of the user experience?
Be aware of cultural differences.
All of this small differences may seem insignificant, but they can help you stand out from the competition and gain the trust of potential customers. For example, in many countries, tipping in restaurants is not always commonplace. In the United States, on the other hand, it is considered offensive not to tip the waiter serving your table 10%. Other concepts vary widely from region to region. In Western cultures, it is quite normal and even expected for young people to rebel against authority. In many Asian cultures, young people are expected to be responsible and obedient. Deviations from these cultural norms can be embarrassing for your customers and for you in terms of turnover.
Diversity is an important factor
Working with a diverse population takes a lot of adaptation and understanding. It is very important to get to know the different cultures. To successfully develop your business abroad. Some methods work, some don't. If you don't have an effective strategy for reaching different cultural audiences. You absolutely need to educate yourself on the subject. Many large companies have a team of local experts, translators, and writers who carefully craft content for each demographic.
Delivery to international
No one wants to receive a damaged product. Delivery is the end user's first physical contact with your products. It is therefore your responsibility to ensure that the order is delivered safely and in sturdy packaging.
– Choose the right type and size of box according to the content.
– Choose packaging suitable for the products, international standards require that the packaging materials withstand a fall from a height of at least 1,5 m.
– Fragile products must be packed separately and must not touch each other.
– Check the weather conditions that may prevail during transport. Depending on the load, humidity and temperature can cause serious problems. Dry bags or sealed boxes may be fine, but cold or extreme temperatures may require special packaging. In short, it all depends on the temperature!
– Make sure labels are printed and attached correctly: barcodes must be readable. Therefore, to avoid damaging the barcode, place it on top of the package and never lay it on its side. Also remove old labels to avoid confusion.
Shipping: express or standard?
For 60% of online shoppers, it is very important to know the date and time of delivery. Remember to keep track of everything, especially abroad. Where is your product? Delivery times are very important information for the end user. When choosing a delivery method, it is important to consider the following.
Therefore, carefully study the rules and delivery conditions of your courier partners. If you offer your customers courier delivery, you should always state the price and delivery time clearly when purchasing.
Taxes, duties and regulations
Check the tariffs and VAT in the country of destination. Imagine that you are transporting your first container. When the goods arrive at their destination, they are blocked at customs for several weeks. Storage costs are rising alarmingly. Why ? You did not have the necessary knowledge to take the appropriate measures. Serious mistake that will cost you dearly, even lead you straight to court
If you want your goods to be delivered quickly, you should find out in advance about the laws, permits and approvals required in the country of destination. This applies to both exports and imports.
Special rules may apply to certain products sold in your online store. For example, parts that can be used for military purposes, also called dual-use goods (dual-use technology). Or over-the-counter products in your country may be completely banned abroad. If you want to avoid problems, educate yourself properly.
Difficulty with international delivery
Delivery terms vary from country to country and carrier to carrier. Below you will find an overview of items whose transport is (generally) prohibited or heavily regulated in international shipments.
– Explosives (eg aerosols, compressed gases, ammunition, fireworks).
– Solid combustible materials (e.g. matches, charcoal, etc.).
– Flammable liquids (eg oil paints, perfumes, shaving products, nail polish, gels).
– Lithium batteries, rechargeable batteries.
– Magnetic materials
- Medications
– Animals and reptiles
