Wow! What a small world!

If someone had told me twenty years ago that I’d be working with companies all over the world from my little studio on the second floor of my home, I would’ve rolled my eyes and thought they were nuts.

But here it is 2010, and that’s exactly what is happening! Who knew that a guy in Kansas City could provide a business service for companies all over the world?

I am not unique. I’ve just realized that there are some companies everywhere that need what I have to offer. In my case it’s voice services in English or Spanish. I record commercials, training and sales videos or phone messaging for companies around the globe. But what do you have to offer the world?

More than likely, whatever you’re good at, there are people that need that information in other countries.

It’s amazing that the world has become such a small community due to the internet and other technological advances. In the past two days I’ve had phone conferences with clients in Italy, Brazil, Chile, Honduras, England, and China! And in every case, these are clients that found my website and contacted me. That’s it. No agent. No hyper-marketing plan. I just simply offer something that other companies need.

The international marketplace is changing at breakneck speed! The people that learn to relate and interact globally, and can work within the cultural and language differences, will reap great benefits.

That doesn’t mean you have to know the different languages. 80% of my international work is in English! It means you have to have the sensitivity and patience to work in a language challenged, culturally diverse, business-aggressive environment. And realize that your international clients are having to do the same.

So, for those of you seeking to make international in-roads in your business, no matter what it may be, I offer 5 things for you to consider:

1. International clients like to do business with friends. Offer the service they need, but be willing to go one step further to get to know your client personally. Almost everyone of my international clients has invited me to come visit them and stay at their house. And I have done the same for them. It’s the way business was done years ago in America.

2. International clients are quite technologically advanced. They know how to make use of the latest digital opportunities and they can teach you a thing or two to make you more proficient. And they are willing to do so.

3. International clients have access to far more people like you with your business service. They don’t need you. They want what you have to offer, but if you don’t deliver, they can find someone else in 15 minutes or less. Take care of them!

4. International clients admire your courage and determination to make it in the international business world. They know it’s tough. Once they’ve contacted you, it’s because you caught their attention. That says something!

5. International businesses are usually very successful national and local businesses. They just branched out. When you are dealing with an international client, you are usually dealing with a very savvy business person or company. Don’t try to fool them. Don’t be arrogant. And don’t sell them short. They know what they want and they know how to get it. If you don’t deliver, someone else will.

Oh, and one other point. International companies know each other. They’re more than happy to exchange ideas and recommendations. And that, my friend, can make you or break you!

Welcome to the wonderful world of international business!