Are you ready to have a Local Business with a Global Advantage?

With the growth of the Internet, mobile web and social media networks, it is no wonder why businesses today are wanting to be online for maximum brand presence and exposure. Nothing wrong with that, but through the course of talking to various clients, it would seem that most businesses are so engrossed in getting GLOBAL exposure, neglecting the potential LOCALLY.

Now, I understand that businesses (especially small businesses) are in the game to make big sales and going into international waters but if you neglect your local audience, chances are, you may not make it internationally as well.

Why is it so?

#1: You’re in for HUGE Competition

It is important to understand that if you’re going global, you need to be even more aware of your competitors. Of course, you may have identified a niche market here and there but you’ll still have to compete your way up to gain web traffic and fans, not to forget the climb up the SEO rankings.

#2: Logistics

This is really simple but many tend to look over this matter. Is your business capable of shipping globally when sales happen? If so, great! But most of the time the answer I receive is “we will see if we can accommodate the request when it happens – we’ll leave it as that for now”. Do you really want to put all the effort to finally get some results, only to react when it happens?

Don’t get me wrong – I’m not against your business going global, but am suggesting that you may also want to start off being a champion locally, first. Why?

#1: Sandbox

You can first test your operations / system / procedures to see if they are too complicated to follow, or if there are any loop holes BEFORE going global. This may in return save you time, money and effort since the problem is still within local reach. After all, this can be considered as a “beta” phase to your business.

#2: Champion of the Pond

When it comes to online marketing, having a niche (the pond) makes it all the easier, what more if it’s localized. For example, “Advertising Firms in Malaysia” would probably be easier than “Advertising Firms” when it comes to online positioning locally. Start off by getting a foothold in your geographic location, then slowly expand when the time is right. By doing so, you’re also…

#3: Gathering of Supporters

This is important if you’re intending of going global in the long run and social media networks makes it all the easier. Blog comments, Facebook wall posts, Tweets and even tips / recommendations on Four Square allows real people to post real feedbacks about your business and CAN influence prospects’ buying decision. I don’t know about you but if it will make a whole lot of difference to me if I see a product / brand that has a huge fan base with feedback as opposed to none, especially if the business is not based locally.

#4: Additional Visibility

Being visible to your local customers can grant you even more visibility, especially when you’re already the champion in the pond and with a strong fan base! Imagine online reviews or even offline write-ups on local media – all these gives you additional exposure AND lands credibility to your business.

Start looking inwards and you’ll be on your way there! I’ll be happy to hear your thoughts on this topic, too!