Over the years, I’ve learned that going local is the first step to going global. Local is not the end all but is the beginning of all.

I’ve learned a few more things working with thousands of entrepreneurs launching products and services in their communities, and taking them globally from their perspective.

I’ve been able to help others think through the strategies, tactics, and implementation plans to ensure that their growth expansion becomes reality much faster.

We’ve helped some create an export plan, understand which market to launch first, which customers, what language, policies, and procedures, some of the tools available, and of course, the ISM family connections globally.

As you think about global markets, it can be overwhelming to think that there are 190+ countries globally. What I encourage you to think about is where else can it be sold, in what other countries? There are government support agencies in almost every country I’ve worked in, that will support you to go global. The country you are launching from may also have support systems or mechanisms in place.

Just knowing the terminology — landing, soft landing, export assistant, import assistant, these terms right away could help you get some resources free or low-cost in the local communities you are in and the global communities you hope to enter.

Consider that from day one. Think about the company name — is it going to work well in different markets? You can’t guarantee all the markets, but we want to assume that you have at least some of the key markets you are going to approach, ensuring that your company name is not odd, or could create challenges for you.

Colors, themes, and things of that nature are also part of the strategy that you may want to think about before launching the product or service.

As you start your business or grow it locally, I encourage you to start thinking and acting globally. Work local and think global. Without your local presence, your global presence will suffer.

BEFORE YOU GO

We see our blogs as opportunities for dialogue. Please share your thoughts as comments.

1. What can you do to immediately implement products or services that could be sold in another country?

2. What can you do to leverage existing systems to start importing or exporting to different countries?

3. What other tools have you used for importing or exporting?

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Faris Alami is Founder and CEO of International Strategic Management, Inc. (ISM). He works internationally, presenting Exploring Entrepreneurship Workshops and other entrepreneurial ecosystem — related ventures.