Many businesses jump into international markets without doing their homework, which can lead to big mistakes and wasted money. But what if we told you researching new markets isn't just for huge companies?

In this episode of Start Global Insights, host Dmytro Shvets chats with Olga Gvozdyova, a top expert from Ukraine's Entrepreneurship and Expert Promotion office. Olga has tons of experience helping businesses like yours figure out foreign markets and expand internationally. She's here to show you how easy it can be!

This episode is full of sources for your market research.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• Why doing your homework on new markets is crucial and can actually save you time and money
• A simple way to start your market research, right from your desk.
• The key things to look for when researching a new country
• Where to find reliable and often free information to help you, including government agencies and online tools
• How to pick the best countries to focus on, considering both market potential and what your company is ready for
• Tips for getting real-world insights, like talking to potential customers and partners, and checking out trade shows
• Smart ways to handle all the information you find so you don't feel overwhelmed
• Why market research is an ongoing journey and how it can even help you land new deal

Ready to explore new global opportunities with confidence? Tune in!

LinkedIn profiles:

Host, Dmytro Shvets https://www.linkedin.com/in/dshvets/

Guest, Olga Gvozdyova https://www.linkedin.com/in/olga-gvozdyova/

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The URL's mentioned in the interview:

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Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/

Are you an exporter eyeing the Netherlands? This episode of our podcast for exporters offers an insider's look into the Dutch market, featuring Geddy van Elburg, Managing Director of MKB Trade Office and owner of Ion Moon International Digital Marketing Agency.

With extensive experience in market analytics and understanding Dutch and international customers, Geddy shares invaluable insights on navigating this unique European landscape.

Geddy breaks down how to identify the best entry points based on your industry, moving beyond the obvious hubs of Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

This episode delves into the practicalities of market research, from leveraging online tools like LinkedIn and company websites to tapping into official statistics from CBS.nl and Eurostat. You'll also learn the power of local business associations and even how collaborating with local universities can provide fresh, cost-effective market intelligence.

Understand the nuances of Dutch communication—their directness, informality, and dislike for exaggeration. Learn how to build trust by having a strong digital footprint and delivering on your promises. Geddy also offers critical advice on the Dutch decision-making process, highlighting their preference for thorough evaluation and the importance of a compelling price-quality-service balance.

Tune in to unlock the secrets to successful market entry and negotiation in the Netherlands and transform your approach to international expansion!

LinkedIn profiles:

Host, Dmytro Shvets https://www.linkedin.com/in/dshvets/

Guest, Geddy van Elburg https://www.linkedin.com/in/geddyvanelburg/

Listen to Start Global Insights on all major platforms and YouTube. Don't forget to subscribe for more global business insights.

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The URL's mentioned in the interview:

Statistics Netherlands https://www.cbs.nl/

MKB Trade Office https://mkbtradeoffice.com/

Eurostat https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat

Feedback: We value your thoughts. Please leave us a review on Apple podcasts, Spotify or email us at podcast@start-global.biz

Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/

Join Dmytro Shvets as he interviews Olena Tokar, CEO of Lol& Pop, about their "magical" entry into the Japanese market.

Learn how a chance meeting at a trade show led to a major distribution deal, despite initial doubts and major hurdles.

Discover the rigorous testing required in Japan, how Lol&Pop overcame blackouts in Ukraine, and why quality and persistence are key.

Listen to the first part of the interview in the episode #42.

Key Highlights :

• Unexpected success story of a Ukrainian candy maker in Japan.
• Deal with a major Japanese distributor and placement in 350 stores.
• Challenges of rigorous testing in Japan.
• Importance of resilience, adaptability, and quality.
• Practical tips for SMEs and exporters.
• Focus on the Japanese market specifically.
• Building trust and reputation.
• Joining industry alliances.

Speakers LinkedIn Profiles:

Dmytro Shvets https://www.linkedin.com/in/dshvets/

Olena Tokar https://www.linkedin.com/in/alonatokar/

Listen to Start Global Insights on all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to subscribe for more global business insights.

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YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/SGIYTRSS

In your browser: https://rebrand.ly/SGISGRSS

Feedback: We value your thoughts. Please leave us a review on Apple podcasts, Spotify or email us at podcast@start-global.biz

Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/

This episode features Olena Tokar, CEO of Lol & Pop, a Ukrainian candy company that successfully expanded globally.

Olena shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from starting the company inspired by Martha Stewart to overcoming the challenges of franchising and exporting.

Learn how she navigated quality control issues, invested in learning about exporting, and ultimately broke into the US market during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Discover the importance of adaptability, perseverance, and believing in your idea, even when faced with obstacles.

Episode Highlights:

• From YouTube Inspiration to Global Expansion: Discover how Olena's entrepreneurial spirit led her to build a successful international candy business.
• Overcoming Franchise Challenges: Learn how Olena navigated quality control and other obstacles to find global success.
• Breaking into the US Market During a Pandemic: Uncover the unexpected opportunities and strategies that propelled Lol & Pop into the competitive US market.
• The Key Ingredients for Global Expansion: Find out the essential elements of adaptability, perseverance, and self-belief that are crucial for any entrepreneur aiming for international growth.

Sell Lol and Pop in your country: https://rebrand.ly/LolAndPop

Olena emphasizes that entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint, and stresses the importance of perseverance, confidence, and continuous learning. With her unique perspective on the candy industry and international trade, she provides valuable tips for businesses looking to expand globally. Join us for an insightful discussion that highlights the resilience of Ukrainian entrepreneurs and their potential in the global market.

Don’t miss the next episode, where Olena will share more about her journey to Japan and additional tips for successful global expansion.

Speakers LinkedIn Profiles:

Dmytro Shvets https://www.linkedin.com/in/dshvets/

Olena Tokar https://www.linkedin.com/in/alonatokar/

Listen to Start Global Insights on all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to subscribe for more global business insights.

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/SGISpotifyRSS

Apple podcasts: https://rebrand.ly/SGIAppleRSS

YouTube: https://rebrand.ly/SGIYTRSS

In your browser: https://rebrand.ly/SGISGRSS

Feedback: We value your thoughts. Please leave us a review on Apple podcasts, Spotify or email us at podcast@start-global.biz

Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/

In this episode of Start Global Insights, host Dmytro Shvets sits down with communication expert David Trafford to explore the art of clear and concise business communication. David, who has extensive experience in preparing startups and companies for pitching their products to international clients, shares his insights on effective communication strategies that resonate with potential customers.

Episode Highlights:

- The importance of doing thorough research and due diligence before entering a new market.

- Common mistakes companies make when presenting their products to foreign clients.

- David's simple yet powerful methodology for delivering clear and impactful presentations.

- How to deconstruct your product or service into essential components to better address customer needs.

- The significance of empathy and understanding the client's perspective in business communication.

- Practical tips on structuring questions to gain valuable insights from potential clients.

- The value of listening and adapting your pitch based on the client's feedback.

- Why less is more: The benefits of concise communication and avoiding information overload.

- David's three essential tips for effective communication: No slides, know your audience, and say less than you think you need to.

David emphasizes the need for businesses to focus on the customer's problems and how their product or service can provide a solution. By breaking down complex information into simple, digestible parts and engaging in meaningful conversations, companies can build stronger relationships with their clients and create lasting value.

LinkedIn profiles of participants:

Dmytro Shvets: https://linkedin.com/in/dshvets

David Trayford: https://linkedin.com/in/davidtrayford

Listen to Start Global Insights on all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to subscribe for more global business insights.

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/SGISpotifyRSS

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Feedback: We value your thoughts. Please leave us a review on Apple podcasts, Spotify or email us at podcast@start-global.biz

Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/

In this episode of Start Global Insights, host Dmytro Shvets sits down with Jorge Etchebehere, former International Sales Manager at Rizobacter Argentina, to explore the intricacies of sales to and from Argentina. Jorge shares his experience in international trade, peculiarities of Argentinian markets and his journey in broadening Rizobacter's reach across continents.

Episode Highlights:

• Insights into the Argentine market, including cultural nuances, negotiation styles, and the importance of local partnerships.
• Jorge's journey from local beginnings to international success with bio inoculants.

• Strategic insights on selecting target countries for expansion.

• The role of cultural similarities in establishing business relationships.

• Challenges in diverse markets such as Japan and Nigeria, and the importance of local partnerships.

• The significance of reinvesting profits into research and development to sustain growth and innovation.

• How fostering personal relationships and trust is key to successful international sales.
• Advice for exporters looking to enter the Argentine market, emphasizing the need for strong local representation and understanding of market dynamics.

Jorge also shares anecdotes from his extensive travels, offering a unique perspective on how cultural understanding can make or break international business deals. From navigating the bureaucracies of different countries to leveraging international networks, this episode is packed with actionable insights for businesses looking to expand globally.

Your host Dmytro Shvets, director of Start Global https://linkedin.com/in/dshvets

Listen to Start Global Insights on all major platforms and YouTube. Don't forget to subscribe for more global business insights.

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/SGISpotifyRSS

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Feedback: We value your thoughts. Please leave us a review on Apple podcasts, Spotify or email us at podcast@start-global.biz

Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/

Are international trade shows really worth the investment? In this episode of Start Global Insights, host Dmytro Shvets delves into the intricacies of participating in global trade fairs, addressing common misconceptions and providing actionable strategies for maximizing your success.

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding the realistic expectations for first-time exporters at trade shows.
• The importance of preparation: How to effectively plan six months ahead of the trade show.
• Strategies to engage potential clients before, during, and after the expo.
• Designing an attractive and functional booth, even with limited resources.
• Utilizing digital channels and social media for promoting your presence at the trade show.
• Effective techniques for gathering and managing business intelligence during the expo.
• The significance of follow-up actions and maintaining long-term relationships with potential clients.

By following these steps, companies can significantly increase their trade show efficiency and secure valuable international contracts. Whether you are a seasoned exporter or a first-timer, this episode offers essential insights to help you navigate the complex world of global trade fairs.

Listen to Start Global Insights on all major podcast platforms. Don't forget to subscribe for more global business insights.

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Feedback: We value your thoughts. Please leave us a review on Apple podcasts, Spotify or email us at podcast@start-global.biz

Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/

In this episode we will discuss one of the largest markets of Europe with almost 47 million of consumers.

The guest of the show is Pedro Jara, an independent consultant from Spain with over three decades of expertise in retail and business consulting. Pedro brings a wealth of knowledge from his experience in management roles within large retail chains, his work in trade with the Extremadura government, and his support for businesses entering the Spanish market.

Episode Highlights:

• An overview of Spain's economic health and political stability

• Insights into Spain's regional differences.

• Strategies for international food producers to penetrate the Spanish retail market.

• The significance of Spain as a tourist hotspot and its impact on consumer markets.

• Practical advice on navigating the retail landscape and contacting potential buyers.

• The cultural nuances of Spanish business negotiations and the importance of building personal relationships and trust.

• Debunking the 'mañana' stereotype.
• Guidance on engaging with government tenders and leveraging local government support for market entry.
• The potential of using Spain as a gateway to Latin American markets and the close ties with neighboring Portugal.

LinkedIn profiles:

Host, Dmytro Shvets https://www.linkedin.com/in/dshvets/

Guest, Pedro Jara https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-jara-94014839/

Listen to Start Global Insights on all major platforms and YouTube. Don't forget to subscribe for more global business insights.

Spotify: https://rebrand.ly/SGISpotifyRSS

Apple podcasts: https://rebrand.ly/SGIAppleRSS

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In your browser: https://rebrand.ly/SGISGRSS

The URL's mentioned in the interview:

Plataforma de Contratación del Estado

https://contrataciondelestado.es/

Extremadura Avante

https://www.extremaduraavante.es/

Asturex

http://www.asturex.org/

Feedback: We value your thoughts. Please leave us a review on Apple podcasts, Spotify or email us at podcast@start-global.biz

Develop your international expansion strategy with Start Global, your guide to foreign markets. Visit us at https://www.start-global.biz/