In today’s day and age, businesses need to work with their customers in a different way than they have before. As your company starts to go global, you will face unique challenges that you need to overcome to succeed internationally. This includes handling your new customers, redefining your brand and changing your workforce.
3 Steps Successful International Business
Improve Your Customer Service
Traditional business runs 9 to 5 Monday to Friday. Once your brand goes international you will start dealing with new customers that have needs that won’t fit your former schedule. Fortunately, there are a lot of tools out there to help you do more. For example, there are services that offer a live virtual receptionist where you can set the schedule for availability. Additionally, you can look into opening up your current methods of communication to allow for further customer interactions, even when you’re off the clock.
Check Your Social Media Strategy
On the topic of changing communication methods, take the time to improve your current social media strategy. Traditionally, brand managers recommend posting during high engagement periods, such as commuting hours. However, once working globally, these hours no longer apply. Look at ways to restructure your posting schedule to fit your new client base. Additionally, you also need to start looking at what applications are being used in your target markets. While Facebook and Instagram maintain the lead in the West, sites like Weibo and Kakao are better tools for reaching consumers in the East. Take the time to review what platforms you need to add to your current social media strategy.
Go Remote
The traditional office landscape is changing. With a growing demand for instant customer interactions and social media plans that work globally, the benefits of going remote seem obvious. With opening up your employee pool to remote workers, you are giving yourself the benefit of people who can work outside of your traditional hours. Additionally, there are other benefits, including lower overhead and a happier workforce. Take the time to see if setting up a remote office environment will help you as you expand your business globally.
As you look into international expansion, make sure that you know how to overcome the unique challenges that come with it. This includes reviewing your current customer service plan, social media strategy and employment style. As your company continues to grow, make sure to take the time to revisit your business plan to keep yourself on track for success.
