Sir Alan Sugar Tells Yorkshire Businesses To Make The Most of Global Opportunities
Created: 24/10/2008
"During what is proving a difficult time for the global economy, over 700 Yorkshire and Humber business leaders heard how entering the global marketplace could actually help to grow their business from Sir Alan Sugar.
The no nonsense founder of Amstrad and boss of BBC’s The Apprentice took part in Yorkshire Forward’s Going Global Conference in Harrogate designed to give businesses practical advice and support on entering international markets and exporting.
A Government Advisor on Enterprise, Sir Alan recounted his own experiences as an entrepreneur and how he took his first steps into business. When asked how small businesses in Yorkshire and Humber should approach overseas trade, especially in the current climate, Sir Alan advised “You need to know your market, the production has to be good, it has to be desired and wanted by the markets abroad, there has to be a reason to buy – either a superb product, cheaper or something new – it has to tick one of those boxes. He also advised regional businesses to research their markets and to make links before setting foot on a plane; “They’re not waiting for you…In this technological age, Harry in Sydney is no more impressed by you than he is by someone in Melbourne – it’s all sales.
Sir Digby Jones, Minister of State for Trade and Investment also took the opportunity to record a special message for Yorkshire and Humber businesses, advising them to “concentrate on one thing and do it really well. Think of one market, go and explore it, try and understand it, find partners, understand how their customers think and want, then go and put the ball in the net.”
The event, which was hosted in partnership with UK Trade and Investment, included exhibits from key players including; DLA Piper, KPMG and HM Revenue and Customs, each offering expert advice to help businesses maximise international opportunities and minimise the associated risk of entering new markets.
Research shows that businesses that internationalise are more competitive and productive than those who focus solely on domestic sales. Allyson Stewart Allen, an expert on bridging the cultural differences in international business, explained; “Diversifying is an inherently good think to do…by being active in an international market you will see other ways of doing things and it will make you see differently and in a more creative way.” "
Andiamo! would like to thank Yorkshire Forward for their permission to publish this article which first appeared in the Yorkshire Forward Business Newsletter October 2008.
If you would like to maximise your international opportunities Andiamo! is here to help. With the help of our worldwide database of professionally qualified translators and interpreters you can approach your new markets with confidence. For more advice please call one of our team on 08450 345 677 - we will be happy to help you.
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