Taking your business global

IN SMALL markets like Singapore, businesses need to think of taking their business global from day one. Expanding into international markets is never easy. Businesses face challenges such as dependable shipping, reliable distribution, talent that is focused on their business, not the other fellow's, and understanding global markets. Mentor John answers some of your questions in the quest for global domination!

What are the best practices for taking my business overseas?

Your first steps will likely be on a trial basis. Keeping costs to a minimum at this stage should not preclude you from doing as much research as you can into the potential market. At the very least, you and a posse of your colleagues should explore the market personally to see what is on offer that competes with you and what the cultural norms are that will affect your sales.