“Macha, that’s where the money is!” When business owners like you hear this, you may wonder if you’re doing the right thing, serving only domestic clients. Whether it is looking at the LinkedIn posts of our ex-boss who took a new job role in Singapore or Instagram stories of batchmates who started their careers in Silicon Valley, working with global clients has its allure.

The reason to pursue this can be many: financial reward, exposure to newer learnings, or simply the sheer thrill of venturing into newer markets. Irrespective of your motivation, expanding your service business globally is a huge step.

Many Indian businesses are going global - both small and big. It includes multi-billion dollar corporations like <a href="https://www.infosys.com/">Infosys</a> and <a href="https://www.tcs.com/">TCS</a> to newer SaaS startups like <a href="https://vymo.com/">Vymo</a> (which is serving 65+ global corporations with 3,00,000+ users). Moreover, Indian businesses are adequately equipped to serve a global clientele.&nbsp;

We have a large, English-speaking, young workforce, proficient in IT and relatively cheaper than our Western counterparts. Indian service exports hit <a href="https://theprint.in/economy/indias-service-exports-hit-all-time-high-of-273-6-bn-in-2022-outlook-is-rosy-too/1302305/">$273.6 billion in 2022</a> and are set to cross <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/foreign-trade/indias-goods-services-exports-may-cross-usd-750-bn-this-fiscal-piyush-goyal/articleshow/98414673.cms">$750 billion in 2023</a>. Additionally, over 63 million MSMEs in India already contribute to about <a href="https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/small-biz/trade/exports/insights/etrise-top-msmes-21-making-india-competitive-globally-through-exports/articleshow/86253693.cms?from=mdr">40% of India’s overall exports</a>. This means that you have an immense opportunity to grow and serve international clients.&nbsp;

It's a decision that can bring immense opportunities but also some hard challenges. The world is full of stories of businesses that failed to go global. However, there are also stories of businesses that successfully expanded globally and transformed into global giants.

This easy-to-follow, eight-point checklist especially for Indian service export businesses will guide you through your first phase of global expansion and help you overcome challenges related to your global business strategy.&nbsp;

These tips have been curated based on years of experience working with service businesses like yours, helping them expand globally.

1. Understand your service and your target audience for going global

What are the factors leading to your business’s success in the domestic market? You need to identify your service business’s unique attributes and selling points against your competitors.&nbsp;

If you’re a software development company selling imaging software to the healthcare industry, you can tailor your marketing efforts to target potential customers in the global healthcare industry.

Break them down and ask these questions if they must be adapted to the global audience.

Moreover, apart from understanding your market-specific aspects, you also need to analyse that country’s overall economic and political scenario. This can be done by analysing their GDP, inflation rate, political stability, international relations with your country and level of business-friendly environment provided by the country.&nbsp;

These will ensure you balance between short-term and long-term opportunities that a country provides. For example, a country that provides generous incentives to help businesses become technology-ready could be a lucrative opportunity for an IT services company.&nbsp;

2. Position your service business to your target audience

After understanding your buyer persona/target market, the next step is to make changes to your existing perception (if needed).

For example, if your target audience is in the Middle East, you must adjust your marketing messaging and language to appeal to that audience. Exercise cultural sensitivity while highlighting how your solutions can address specific challenges faced by them.

3. Find and establish the first cross-border business connection

You can achieve this step either through a digital route or a physical route. <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/checklist-for-cold-outreach?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Cold reachouts through email campaigns</a>, social platforms, or inbound activities like SEO are effective. Similarly, you can:

You can always request common connections to introduce you to their network since <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/business/sales/blog/prospecting/10-sales-prospecting-tips-thatll-help-you-break-through">referrals have a 70% greater chance</a> of getting leads and, eventually, acquiring new clients.

4. Craft a winning pitch for global business expansion

There are four elements to a winning pitch.

Let’s consider you are pitching accounting software to potential ACCAs in the UK. You may highlight how your software solutions can help them comply with UK-specific tax laws or provide examples of how you've successfully helped other UK-based accountants. Proven track records help in converting customers faster.

Additionally, you can provide a limited free trial for the potential customer to understand how the software works and whether it will suit their needs.&nbsp;

You may be ready to expand business, but the maze of <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/mastering-compliance-a-step-by-step-guide-to-data-protection-payments-laws-and-industry-regulations-for-tech-exporters?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">regulations and compliances</a> deters many businessmen from going global. Before engaging in international transactions, it's crucial to understand the rules of cross-border business. This involves understanding:

If you’re working with Singapore-based venture capitalists and consultants, you need enough information about prevailing invoicing guidelines and taxation in Singapore. You may need to hire a local legal or accounting firm to consult and ensure compliance with the laws.

6. Align timelines and set a roadmap for successful&nbsp; project completion

Once you've established a relationship with your client, it's important to align on timelines, milestones, and execution roadmap to ensure that you're meeting their expectations.

<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/implementing-effective-communication-practices-for-better-productivity?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">Effective communication</a> is the key to a <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/7-easy-steps-to-create-a-successful-project-completion-framework?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">successful project completion framework</a>. A wise decision is to dedicate a single point of contact for the client to speak to. Keeping them updated on the project’s progress regularly is crucial, especially if things are not going as per the plan. Do not assume or expect.&nbsp;

They might require more changes than you think. A dedicated project manager shall communicate, manage the project, and ensure that it's delivered on time and within budget.&nbsp;

On your side, they may also be leading the daily scrum call or updating you on project milestones. Map the potential areas of friction and prepare to resolve them. This will help you manage the project effectively and deliver it on time and within budget.&nbsp;

7. Create international marketing strategies for your service business

Expanding a service business globally requires a firm knowledge of international marketing tactics. To access a worldwide audience, utilise diverse platforms like social media, search marketing, and online advertising. Leverage forums, email marketing, and other targeted channels to enhance outreach.&nbsp;

Craft region-specific strategies and tailor marketing to diverse platforms for effective global promotion. Determine the optimal sales model and establish a comprehensive marketing plan with measurable KPIs.&nbsp;

Generate new leads and assess pricing models relative to competitors. Your <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/six-proven-strategies-to-propel-your-it-service-business-growth?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=demo_click">go-to-market strategy</a> should prioritise flexibility to adapt to uncertainties and evolving trends.

8. Establish an efficient payment system for post-project customer lifecycle management

Your work doesn’t end once the project is completed. It's important to maintain a good relationship with the customer.&nbsp;

Many times a company does well in the core areas of creating a valuable service and identifying the right market to cater to but still finds it difficult to grow rapidly due to a disorganised payment process.&nbsp;

Imagine doing all the hard work of providing value to your client and then finding out that your payment is stuck or you lose out on some profits during payments.&nbsp;

As soon as you start a business in a new geography, you will begin receiving and sending money abroad. This will bring a set of new aspects regarding international payments that you need to start planning for.

This step involves <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/skydo-dashboard-for-all-your-needs?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">raising invoices on time</a>, clearly aligning payment options, and ensuring <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/real-time-tracking-of-international-payments?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">regular payment follow-ups</a>. Feedback calls to identify areas of satisfaction and improvement ensure you get repeat business, referrals, and positive word of mouth.&nbsp;

Additionally, an international business will usually be dealing with <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/benefits-of-multi-currency-accounts?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">multiple currencies</a> - the target market’s currency, the business’s local currency and probably even a third currency (like USD).&nbsp;

Thus it becomes important for the business to have a system in place for currency exchange conversions and fluctuations. Studying the volatility of that country’s currency will help in analysing and planning for that risk better. Choose the right banking partner or <a href="https://www.skydo.com/?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=demo_click">payment service provider</a> to save on hefty transactions and <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/how-much-forex-fees-do-you-pay-on-your-international-transactions?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">forex conversion fees.</a>

Expanding your service business globally can be a challenging and rewarding experience. By following this eight-point checklist, you can ensure that you're taking the right steps to succeed in your cross-border business.

Remember, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/ready-set-launch-8-key-elements-for-launching-your-tech-export-business-today?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">expanding your service business globally</a> is a big decision, and it's important to do it right. By following this checklist, you can navigate the challenges and take your business to the next level. So, take the leap and get started on your journey to global success!

The following are the critical components of successful global expansion.

Ans. Global business refers to conducting commercial activities internationally of goods or services across national borders. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including trade, investment, distribution, etc. It has led to increased economic independence among countries and has created both opportunities and challenges for businesses seeking to expand their operation worldwide.

Q2. When looking to expand your business internationally on social media, what should you do first?

Ans. The first step is thorough market research. Understand the cultural nuances, preferences, and trends in your target countries. Tailor your content and advertising strategies to resonate with the local audience to maximise engagement and success.

Ans. Launching a global business is crucial for several reasons. It broadens market opportunities, reduces dependence on a single market, fosters innovation through diverse perspectives, and can lead to cost efficiencies. Additionally, it promotes economic growth, cultural exchange, and international collaboration, contributing to a more interconnected and prosperous world economy.

Eight-point guide to take your service business global th

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Imagine sipping chai in Mumbai while crafting designs for a client in New York—it's not a dream but a global design reality! The design universe is borderless; for budding Indian designers, the world is your canvas. Freelancing platforms like <a href="https://www.upwork.com/">Upwork</a>, <a href="https://www.toptal.com/">Toptal</a>, <a href="http://deel">Deel</a>, and <a href="https://www.saday.online/">Saday</a> bridge distances, making global success just a click away.&nbsp;

How? Let’s explore strategies to initiate and expand your design business beyond borders!

Understanding The Global Design Landscape: Philosophy Meets Audience

Design is not simply about creating something aesthetically pleasing but about translating ideas into tangible works that the target audience can appreciate. It involves aligning philosophy with the target audience’s needs and mastering a range of crafts such as motion graphics, visual design (artistic/UI-UX), marketing (ad copies), fashion design, and more.&nbsp;

Each area has its unique subcategories, allowing designers to specialise and excel in specific domains.

For instance, in visual design, a graphic designer may specialise in creating striking logos that symbolise a company's core values, while a UI/UX designer focuses on crafting seamless and intuitive user interfaces for digital products.&nbsp;

In fashion design, one might specialise in sustainable, eco-friendly clothing, aligning their philosophy with a commitment to environmental consciousness.

Specialisation in Design Business: The Key to Excelling Globally

To succeed in the global design landscape, specialisation is pivotal. Clients often seek experts in particular areas, whether it is logo design, packaging, or UI-UX.&nbsp;

A survey by the <a href="https://ictdmsector.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/2021_Salary_Guide_Creative_and_Marketing_NA.pdf">Creative Group</a> found that 62% of marketing and advertising executives believe that specialised skills are more important than a broad skill set when hiring creative professionals.

Design specialisation enables you to charge more for your expertise, offering superior value compared to a 'jack of all trades.' Find communities where you can complement your strengths and weaknesses by collaborating with other specialists. Platforms like Upwork can be a starting point to establish your presence and connect with potential clients.

Here are some design specialisations currently in demand.

Design Thinking: Solving Problems, Not Just Designing

Clients seek designers who can effectively communicate and understand their design problems. This is why "design" is associated with "thinking".&nbsp;

Design thinking is fundamentally about problem-solving.&nbsp;

Every client is essentially presenting a problem, not just a project. As a designer, your goal is to provide solutions that address these problems effectively. Presenting proposals that clearly outline how you intend to solve the client's problems through design is the key to closing deals and establishing <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/building-a-global-network-of-customers-for-your-cross-border-business?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">long-term relationships</a>.&nbsp;

Here are the five steps to achieve optimum design thinking:

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8P8gspd_Bx8">Netflix's evolution</a> from a DVD rental service to a streaming giant exemplifies a profound application of design thinking. CEO Reed Hastings identified pain points in traditional movie consumption—late fees, inconvenience, and time delays.&nbsp;

Understanding users' frustrations, Netflix created a revolutionary concept: an online DVD rental service. By understanding their customers and implementing an online directory, they streamlined the process. Recognising the need for further innovation, they transitioned to a subscription model, eliminating per-DVD charges and late fees.

As internet usage surged, Netflix embraced online streaming, aligning with users' desire for instant, convenient access. The current UI/UX design reflects this journey, emphasising user-friendly features like hover-over previews and personalised recommendations.&nbsp;

With beta testing, Netflix continues refining its design, ensuring user-centricity. From problem-solving empathy in the DVD era to the seamless streaming experience today, Netflix's design thinking journey has been integral to its <a href="https://companiesmarketcap.com/netflix/marketcap/">$153.41 billion</a> success story.

Finding and Retaining Clients for Your Design Business

Successfully finding and retaining clients is essential for business growth and sustainability. To kickstart this journey, your initial focus should be reaching out to potential clients through networking and showcasing your skills effectively. Then, once you've secured those clients, maintaining long-lasting relationships becomes equally vital.&nbsp;

Focus on creating a standout portfolio that showcases your design prowess and reflects your adaptability across different styles and projects. To execute this design marketing strategy, consider crafting dummy projects that simulate real-world scenarios and demonstrate your capabilities.&nbsp;

Additionally, to succeed globally, your portfolio should have a global appeal. Drawing inspiration from aspirational companies and creating dummy projects can help showcase your worldview. Utilise platforms like <a href="https://www.behance.net/">Behance</a> to exhibit your work to a worldwide audience.&nbsp;

Build a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media engagement to increase visibility and credibility. Actively network within your industry, online and offline, to tap into potential clients and leverage word-of-mouth recommendations.

In the quest to find clients, <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/checklist-for-cold-outreach?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">cold outreach</a> can be a powerful strategy. Platforms like LinkedIn, Behance, and Instagram provide opportunities to showcase your work, connect with potential clients, and share your expertise. Engage in conversations, join relevant groups, and establish your presence as a design expert.&nbsp;

Craft personalised and compelling messages highlighting your skills and the value you can bring to their projects.

Effective communication is pivotal; respond promptly to inquiries and articulate how your design skills align with the client's objectives. Beyond aesthetics, provide solutions that add tangible value to the client's brand.&nbsp;

Once you've secured a client, prioritise relationship building by maintaining professionalism, transparency, and reliability. Regularly update clients on project progress and seek feedback to refine your approach. Consider implementing client retention strategies such as loyalty programs and referral incentives.

Hourly rates may not be suitable for design projects due to varying experience levels and efficiency. Past clientele and experience play a significant role in <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/price-it-right-driving-success-in-your-it-services-company?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">determining the pricing</a> for design projects.&nbsp;

You can also explore the nuSchool website titled "<a href="http://thenuschool.com/how-much/#/start">How Much Should I Charge?</a>" This platform guides you through straightforward inquiries about your design project, providing an estimation of the suggested price based on your responses.

Understanding and respecting cultural norms is vital in the global design landscape. It extends beyond design aesthetics to presenting yourself appropriately, respecting different calendars, and acknowledging cultural sensitivities.&nbsp;

Additionally, platforms like Slack or Asana for efficient communication and <a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/7-easy-steps-to-create-a-successful-project-completion-framework?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link">project management</a>, for seamless interaction and task tracking. Navigate time zone differences and incorporate video conferences for asynchronous communication to bridge global gaps.&nbsp;

For instance, if working with a Japanese client, respect their punctuality by ensuring you're on time for meetings. Adapting to diverse work styles and preferences for cross-border projects ensures smooth interactions and fosters lasting relationships with clients from various cultural backgrounds.

Continuously learning and staying updated is critical in the dynamic field of design. A <a href="https://info.udemy.com/rs/273-CKQ-053/images/2016_Udemy_Workplace_Boredom_Study.pdf">study by Udemy</a> found that 80% of individuals agreed that learning new skills would increase their engagement.&nbsp;

Follow content creators like Futur and South, and leverage resources like typography books, <a href="https://in.pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a>, <a href="https://dribbble.com/">Dribbble</a>, and trends reports from renowned agencies for inspiration.&nbsp;

Engaging with these design resources and content creators will broaden your design horizons and provide practical insights and inspiration to fuel your creative journey.

Design Bibles: Must-Read Books for Design Enthusiasts

Expand your design knowledge with these pivotal books:

Top Content Creators for Design Inspiration

Stay inspired with these remarkable content creators:

The design journey is a perpetual learning experience, and embracing this evolution is key to long-term success.

Designing without borders is an exciting venture, filled with opportunities to connect with diverse clients and showcase your creativity on a global stage. Specialisation, effective problem-solving, strong client relationships, and staying culturally aware are the cornerstones of a successful global design business. Stay inspired, keep learning, and embrace the interconnected world of design to scale your business beyond boundaries.

Q1. What is global design, and why is it important for a design business?

Ans: Global design is the practice of creating designs that go beyond geographical boundaries and cater to a diverse, international audience. It is important for a design business because it opens up opportunities to reach a broader client base, tap into different markets, and showcase your creativity on a global stage.

Q2. How can I specialise in design, and why is specialisation essential for success in the global design landscape?

Ans: Specialisation in design involves focusing on a specific niche or area, such as UI-UX design, product design, or graphic design. Specialisation is crucial because clients often seek experts in particular fields, and you can charge more for your expertise, offering superior value compared to being a generalist.

Q3. What legal considerations should I consider when operating a global design business?

Ans: Running a global design business may involve legal considerations such as<a href="https://www.skydo.com/blog/sole-proprietorship-vs-other-business-structures?utm_source=blogs&amp;utm_medium=website&amp;utm_campaign=post_link"> business structure</a>, international copyright laws, contracts across borders, and tax implications. It's advisable to consult with legal experts or consider hiring an attorney specialising in international business law to ensure compliance with relevant regulations.

Q4. What are the potential challenges of working with clients from different cultural backgrounds, and how can I overcome them?

Ans: Working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds may lead to challenges related to communication, differing work styles, and varying expectations. Being culturally sensitive, adapting to different communication preferences, and maintaining open and clear communication throughout the project are essential.

Growing Global

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