When I started my business ten years ago, the word “globalization” wasn’t really something in my immediate or even long term goals! But it developed organically from my burning passion to reach and elevate as many people as I could with my messages of inspiration and encouragement. So here I am!
In the past year, I’ve had the privilege of speaking to, impacting and working with people in more than 10 countries. I’ve addressed business visionaries in places like Sweden, Belgium, Amsterdam, Paris, authors in Mexico and business people in Central America. And I’ve found that when you are working internationally, you must change the way you work.
The first thing to do, however, is …
Embrace Globalization!
Whether you planned it or it developed organically, don’t be afraid to let your passion move you into unknown territory or different parts of the world. You never know where it will lead!
When I first launched the anthology book series, Today’s Inspired Latina, featuring more than 20 authors in each volume, I never dreamed the project would develop into a global movement. It started with 25 local authors, most of them from the Chicago area. But then I watched as the second volume drew authors from other areas of the country, then from Mexico, South America, Puerto Rico and beyond.
This month, I was asked to speak to a group of Latina entrepreneurs in Amsterdam and one of the ladies became an author in Volume 4. Soon, I had a number of European Latinas expressing interest in telling their stories within the pages of Today’s Inspired Latina.
Now, even as we work on Today’s Inspired Latina Vol. 5 with authors from Mexico and the Dominican Republic, we are planning an all-European version for Volume 6, as a result of one speaking engagement. I never predicted that the power of the message and mission behind the book would resonate so strongly with European Latinas and so quickly expand our movement’s global footprint!
As I write this, I am have presented the Today’s Inspired Latina book series at the prestigious New York Times in NY, Amsterdam and Paris. I have 15 authors from all the volumes joining me for the first European tour. They will address our overseas book sisters with messages of inspiration and perseverance.
My takeaway is that when you have an authentic message and offer people something of value, globalization comes organically. Be open and receive!
Reset your Clock
Perhaps one of the most obvious differences between doing business domestically versus abroad is the time zone difference. Nowadays, I wake up at 5am to messages from my colleagues across the world who are just ending their workday. With China 14 hours ahead and Europe a good seven or eight, I am cognizant that the world does not keep my hours. I have to change my communication patterns to be available when it’s convenient for them.
Boost Your Tech Game
When you do not have the blessing of being able to sit across the table from someone, you must rely on technology. Since my globalization, I have sought out and been introduced to many great apps including:
- Zoom. Great for video meetings.
- Facebook Messenger. Quick, easy and affordable communication with people around the world through Facebook.
- Whatsapp. A great app and favorite for people communicating internationally. I find it even better than email for sending images, voice memos, photos, texting, etc.
- Belive A must have resource for live Facebook broadcasts to see viewer’s comments and more.
The hard part about relying on technology is that the technology must work…or else! Test your equipment before the meeting starts. Bad connections and reception will hamper your productivity and efficiency. Make the investment in time and money to secure the right tools and the right connection so all is well.
Get Social
Social media is a quick and easy yet powerful tool for globalization. Recently, I had the honor of appearing on the cover of Business Fit Magazine, a European publication for business professionals. I was truly humbled to receive an outpouring of love and social media likes and shares for my post. Social media is perhaps the easiest, most effective way to expand your global reach…and feel the love all over the world!
Finally,
Don’t Forget… Authenticity is Universal
Remember, your authenticity transcends borders, language and culture. It really doesn’t matter who you are dealing with or what country they live in. Qualities like honesty, transparency, following through on your promises and integrity are always in fashion, all over the world.
Some people have a clear vision for their globalization and expansion across the globe. My journey was different, but fruitful and rich with valuable lessons. I wish you all the best with your endeavors on this continent and across the globe!
Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz is the CEO of JJR Marketing (www.jjrmarketing.com) and Fig Factor Media LLC international book publishing company (www.figfactormedia.com), founder of The Fig Factor Foundation (www.thefigfactor.org), creator of Today’s Inspired Latina book series and international movement (www.todayslatina.com), author of eleven books (www.jackiecamacho.com), international speaker, and pilot. Jacqueline speaks to hundreds of audiences about marketing, servant leadership, finding your passion, and achieving success in business. She has addressed the United States Army, BP International, United Airlines, Allstate, and Farmers Insurance among other corporations to share her inspiration.
If you or an organization you know needs as speaker, please get in touch with us at http://www.jackiecamacho.com/contact.