2009-08-26
My focus the past seven years has basically been on a daily basis to establish Swedish companies internationally, thus giving me the privilege to work with everything from energetic small business owners and entrepreneurs to export and business development managers at the country's major companies.
It has moved on from wood to more advance IT solutions. The goal is of course always been to provide these business services that fit each company, customized by industry, company size, market and, perhaps most importantly ... .. the specific individual who buys the service.
As for all other types of services and products as is primary objective of the service in principle one - to find a solution to a problem, to satisfy a need. In this case, it is about doing business in new international markets, which like so many other things may seem to be an advanced job, so far they are not closely familiar with internationalization.
The network and knowledge:
My perhaps most important insight has been the most about contacts and networking. One of my guiding expressions is that "Man possesses two kinds of knowledge: Its own direct knowledge and understanding of who can". Each individual has, after all, a small hard drive for learning and their own experiences, why the knowledge of others who cannot, is rarely decisive. Regarding new areas such as entering new markets, we are obviously very dependent on, if not the mercy of the latter, when it comes to identifying the best possible business contacts.
Actively seek business contacts:
In Sweden we are a bit afraid to make use of contacts, and then it is not always considered proper to use them. Turning it on it so it's however, few things an individual should get as much satisfaction out of which to impart knowledge, to show that it can. Bet therefore to actively maintain existing network and reprocessing of specific new contacts. The cliché is true after all - shops are not between companies but between individuals. A wide network of contacts is crucial for more business.
Manage your contacts:
For internationalization, it is important to identify the best possible partner, customer, etc. but is of course crucial to this relationship. Here's understanding and knowledge of other business cultures in many cases decisive. In Southern Europe, we must understand the importance of social work with a business partner, that the UK should be able to enjoy themselves over a few pints, etc.. Several business cultures are based more on trust between individuals and is secondarily dependent on company and product.
A West Swedish Industry and Commerce foundation is our extensive network of international business contacts: Chamber of Commerce, corporate boards, authorities, experts, local business representatives, etc. Probably the largest network of business - an important part of the basic recipe for more and better business: Knowledge & Networks.