Exporting is a rich business opportunity for all enterprises, no matter their size. That was the main message from speakers at the British Chambers of Commerce International Trade Conference in London last Thursday.
The event attracted high-profile speakers and innovative entrepreneurs, including former Dragons’ Den judge Theo Paphitis, leading handbag designer Anya Hindmarch and chocolatier Louis Barnett, who started his business aged 12.
Each entrepreneur had entertaining and surprising stories to tell and valuable lessons to share about exporting. Here’s a roundup of top tips from the day.
1. Exporting helps businesses grow
With speakers from UK Trade and Investment and UK Export Finance, there was a clear push to make exporting simpler for SMEs. They pointed out that exporting is beneficial to both individual businesses and the UK as a whole.
2. Research the local culture
Throughout the event, speakers emphasised the importance of learning about the culture of the target country and the usefulness of knowing other languages as an exporting entrepreneur.
3. Storytelling sells your business
From the 22-year-old that’s been in business 10 years, to the handbag designer that sacked herself as her company’s CEO - the day’s speakers showed playing on the personal piques potential customers’ interest in your brand.
4. Promote your UK credentials - it’s a strong business brand
Business leaders spoke of the strength of the UK brand, particularly in certain markets, such as the Middle East and Japan.
5. Build networks to grow
Tapping into the network of the country where you’re exporting is one of the best tools for exporting growth, as several entrepreneurs emphasised.
6. Take care to protect your brand abroad
The steps you take to secure your company in the UK should be replicated in the country you export to.
7. Follow everyday good practice
While describing their exporting successes, speakers gave insightful advice that was applicable to any stage of being an entrepreneur.
Read more stories like this:
Exporting: your top 10 questions answered
Accidental exporters: the businesses that fell into selling overseas
This content has been sponsored by UPS, whose brand it displays. All content is editorially independent.
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