International Elections that may impact your global sales strategy

Six emerging countries will be holding elections in the coming months. Will this affect your sales market there?

Thailand, South Africa, Indonesia, India, Turkey and Brazil will have elections that may affect their economies.

Three such markets are listed below.

Indonesia, the third largest democracy in the world will hold elections in April. The following rules may change or be eased with the new administration. As of now, Indonesia has implemented a new mining law limiting exports of certain raw, unrefined products.  If minerals do not meet the “level of purity” they will not be exported. Mineral exports will be subject to a 20% export tax which is set to rise to 60% in 2016. This will mean a loss of 1.5 – 2 Billion USD in sales and 100,000 jobs could be lost.

India – the world’s largest democracy will hold state elections in May 2014. India has been plagued by corruption scandals, elevated inflation and weak economic growth. It appears Modi, Prime Minister candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party is leading in popularity. His party is pro-business and will help grow the Indian economy and thus strengthen exporters looking towards the Indian market.

Brazil –South America’s largest economy has a busy 2014 coming with hosting the World Cup and state elections. The real, Brazil’s currency was the most devalued currency in Latin America resulting in a lack of confidence in the government’s economic policies. Brazil’s lack luster economy is being watched by many and hopes that the election may spark renewed economic growth. 

Mousa Kassis of Ohio’s ITAC at Youngstown State University is watching the elections in these emerging markets. Kassis helps manufacturers in Eastern Ohio grow and expand their products worldwide. Much of the information in this Blog came from his observations of global economies.

He notes that economic development organizations’ biggest concern is world poverty. If the divide continues to grow, the ability for countries to educate, innovate and grow will be reduced. If countries cannot support innovation and growth, world economies will fail to grow. The poor everywhere will impact US citizens if there are not markets for our products.

Currently this is being discussed at the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting. It is taking place in Davos Klosters, Switzerland until the 25^th of January. Being discussed is the growing divide of the haves and have-nots. The growth of poverty (85 people hold as much wealth as the 3.85 Billion poorest people in the world) and its effect on global growth will be addressed. Check out this YouTube video on the topic. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cZ7LzE3u7Bw

I want to thank Mousa Kassis for sharing his knowledge with me to write this blog. Are you looking for export assistance? Inquire with ITAC http://development.ohio.gov/bs/bs_itac.htm or  http://www.ohiosbdc-ysu.com/ and email Mousa at Mousa H Kassis (mhkassis@ysu.edu).

About the Author
Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. Their translations and localization transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages helping to increase your sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at
linda@allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com.

All Clear Translations Global Buyers Forecast for 2014

Working with our U.S. clients who are selling worldwide we have compiled a list of languages and regions to help you grow your global marketing with translation.

Canada and Mexico – are largest trading partners. This is a great way to start to export. Ease of shipping, resources to help and need for our products makes them natural jumping points for many of our clients.

U.S. population – In California 44% of its population speak another language other than English at home. Laredo Texas has 92% of its population speaking another language at home. Highest percentage of languages spoken at home are Spanish (37.6 million), Chinese (2.9 million), Tagalog (1.6 million) Consumer goods and Healthcare companies especially are reaching out to people here in the U.S. translating into Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Russian and more.

Asia remains a growth area for our clients.

Even with the lower projections for GDP growth, China has a large presence globally and will be a great market for some of our clients. The written language used is simplified Chinese. India’s population is booming and their need for water, healthcare and infrastructure solutions has them engaging our U.S. companies to help build their economy. Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines are buying more products like software solutions, medical devices and automation for their manufacturing.

Germany – Germany is the largest buying power in Europe for Robotics and Hi-tech manufactured products. There are many German companies based in the U.S. and ease of entrance is possible.

Russia – an almost unlimited need for infrastructure solutions and 140 million consumers makes this a new market for many clients. The growing middle class and need for medical solutions creates opportunity to sell into this new market. Recently, the state of PA added representatives there to help PA business build there.

Brazil – Brazil has so much going on! 2014 is the World Cup and 2016 they host the Olympics. To do this, they are reaching out to our U.S. clients for solutions that range from engineering to manufacturing. Brazilian Portuguese is the official language and you will not do business there without feet on the street. Luckily, our US Commercial service and PA reps will help you build a marketing plan and sales.

Africa – Use of the smartphone has created new solutions like: Online Banking, mobile applications, online shopping and more. Software and mobile application companies who can enable this population to connect with new products and services will find this a growth market. Now people are more connected than have toilets! African countries are looking for help to build their infrastructure and economies with American technology.

Stop and consider your possibilities. Perhaps 2014 while employing new strategies to open these markets, you will find translating your marketing materials, videos, and product information a catalyst to blow open your sales goals and marketing ROI. All Clear Translations wishes you a successful and abundant year! Make it, translate it and they will BUY it!

About the Author:

Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. Their translations and localization transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages helping to increase your sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies  and video translations enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at linda@allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com

All Clear Translations Identifies Global Buyer Trends of 2013

Based on clients’ global language translations needs, here is a list of regions and industries that showed growth in 2013. Looking beyond our next door neighbors, there are opportunities to sell to a new market.

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) December 16, 2013 -- Looking at clients’ global language needs of 2013, here is a list of regions and industries that showed growth and promise this year. There will always be a large need for Spanish and French translations due to U.S. largest trading partners, Canada and Mexico. Looking beyond border neighbors, there are opportunities to sell to a new market.

Here are the global areas that could be new markets for export.
Areas showing a large interest in U.S. products:
Asia: Chinese – simplified, Korean
Pan Asia: Indonesia, Philippines
Eastern Europe: Russia, Poland, Czech Republic
Europe: Germany
Middle East: Saudi Arabia
Africa: South Africa
Americas: Canada, Mexico, Columbia, Brazil

What products are these global buyers looking for?
Hi Tech Manufacturing including:
o Industrial Robotics
o Medical Robotics
Software Solutions for security including:
o CyberSecurity
o Mitigation solutions for product theft
Online Education Solutions
Medical Devices

To build a global company, translation will be the bridge to close gaps to new clients. Creating loyalty and
respect with a new group of buyers. First impressions can never be taken back. Has someone not gotten your name right? Not translating can leave the same first impression. Marketing strategies that include translations have been highly successful for clients. This information should help identify key areas to explore and grow in.

Stay tuned for our Growth Predictions for 2014. Details will include growth areas and languages to target new markets. Build it, translate it and they will buy it. May 2014 be filled with goal breaking moments.

About the Author
Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. Their translations and localization transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages helping to increase your sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at
linda(at)allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com.

Five Tips for a Successful International Trade Show Exhibit

Are you standing out? Getting found or seen at trade conferences? Do people love you for your communication Outreach?

International trade shows offer terrific opportunities for growing and establishing your global contacts and clients. You will gain exposure to many potential international suppliers and colleagues, distributors and more in one place. Maximize your investment by following the tips below:

1.       Act Global – English may be considered a universal language (by Americans) but you could benefit greatly by having a translator present at your exhibit.

At a minimum, translate your marketing materials and product information into your prospective clients’ native languages. Translated presentations give an opportunity to potential international prospects to comprehend your product benefits and the technical details of your amazing product. Overall, allowing them to understand the value of you and your company.

This small addition to your marketing materials will make international guests feel welcome and respected. Even if you do not speak their language, if you attempt to communicate in their native tongue you will be held in much higher esteem.

2.       Mind your manners  - Welcome, welcome, welcome your visitors to your trade booth. Offer them comfort, they have been walking and talking to many exhibitors. They may be tired and hungry. Some cultures are insulted if they are not offered a snack, beverage or a seat while learning more about what you do. Example: if you visit a Danish company, you will be in an inviting space, offered tea and cookies and made to feel very welcome. Also, be aware and recognize the role of women in some cultures and act appropriately.

3.       Mirror body language - Americans are known to engage quickly, be matter of fact and “cut to the chase”. Some cultures are uncomfortable with that level of direct interaction.

o   Follow their lead – if they bow, bow, allow them to extend their hand, do not stare or make direct eye contact if they are not.

o   Try not to come off as strong and rude.  Engage them personally, small talk is big!

4.       Business cards – Company cards are essential and a valuable introduction. Again, create bi-lingual cards for your international prospects. Choose languages that are your targets’ or the domain country’s official language. Hand your card to the prospect with both hands; accept their card with both hands. Never write on the back of an associate’s card, this can be seen as very insulting and may even seal their minds that you are not getting the deal!

5.       Follow up personally - Send a hand written note to your prospective clients or suppliers thanking them for their time and information. If you promised to send information, include it. This simple act will create a strong buyer/seller relationship, create respect and build your sales!

You will have successful interactions, confidence and increased sales using these tips. Happy Hunting!

About the Author:

Linda Richardson is the President and owner of All Clear Translations, LLC. Their translations and localization transform websites, software, technical manuals and marketing materials into all languages helping to increase your sales. Their unique process can include Plain English to help companies increase understanding and comprehension while reducing translation and production costs of manuals. Their audio voice-over technologies enable spoken and written communication in many languages. Email Linda at linda@allcleartranslations and visit their website http://www.allcleartranslations.com

Everyone should be excited about Women in Technology

 

NCWIT - Have you seen this organization. Amazing young women in technology. Let's all support their mission. Less than 3% of young girls choose to go into computer tech studies. We need to understand why and help open this field of study to 1/2 of the population!   

  https://www.aspirations.org/

Aspirations in Computing is a talent development pipeline initiative of the National Center for Women & IT (NCWIT) designed to increase women's meaningful participation in computing careers by providing encouragement, visibility, community, leadership opportunities, scholarships, and internships to high potential technically inclined young women. Aspirations in Computing is the only national level talent development program for young women in computing and information technology.

Blog worth sharing - Global Skills are essential

Tomorrow’s Leaders: Why Global Skills Are Essential

Posted By Paul Tate, November 19, 2013 at 9:14 AM, in Category: Next-Generation Leadership and the Changing Workforce 

http://www.gilcommunity.com/blog/tomorrows-leaders-why-global-skills-are-essential/

• Academic institutions should include a strong global perspective in their technical and manufacturing management training courses

• Companies should ensure internal training and apprenticeship schemes include lessons in global cultural awareness and communication skills

• Today’s leaders need to encourage their executives and top-flight management trainees to take on international assignments, however brief, in overseas locations – either in the company’s own facilities, or perhaps with one of its partners

- See more at: http://www.gilcommunity.com/blog/tomorrows-leaders-why-global-skills-are-essential/#sthash.A0BVII0b.dpuf

The State of PA opens a Trade Office in Russia!

Facts about Russia and why you should think about selling there! 


Please click on the link and view the presentation. Contact your local Northwest or Southwest PA office to learn more. http://www.newpa.com/webfm_send/3732

Russia:
10% of the world’s oil resources
20% of the world’s gas resources
¼ of the world’s wood resources

143 million – the largest market in Eastern Europe
Highly urbanized population: 72,9% / 21,1%
Low life expectancy: men 62 years / women 73 years
Unemployment rate: 8%
Growth projection: +5% in 2013
Inflation: tends to diminish -> 7% in 2012

Budget balance : -2 % GDP
Public debt (% GDP): 10,5% (2011) -> 15% in 2015.
Industry: 35% of the GDP, employs 22% of the active population

2012 : Russia enters WTO

+15% growth regions

Contact: Jana New :
jnew@pa.gov
 I 717-265-7749

PA | AUTHORIZED TRADE REPRESENTATIVE RUSSIA
Ul Bolshaya Pochtovaya | 26V
/1 105082 Moscow | RUSSIA
Tel: +7 495 645 59 36 | Fax: +7 495 645 59 37
Johann SPONAR | SALVEO
Group’s
 CEO :
j.sponar@newpa.eu

Sabine SCARAVETTI | GM Russia :
s.scaravetti@newpa.eu
Nona KOPYLOVA | PA Authori
zed Trade Representative :
n.kopylova@newpa.eu