Many small and medium size companies have succeeded by taking their services and creativity into new international markets. Architects, designers, advertising agencies, events companies, film producers and numerous other British SME’s have exported their services. With today’s technology and unrestricted travel access it has never been easier to target new markets and overseas clients.

However, despite all of this, there are still various challenges associated with doing business internationally for SME’s in the creative sector. Firstly, how do you effectively engage the right clients in the right markets? How do you establish a relationship that is likely to convert to sales and repeat business? How do you then deliver the project in an effective way without a local presence? How do you allocate your resources appropriately, keeping cost and expenditure within your (probably limited) budget and yet still achieve the desired ROI? What are the cultural sensitives of doing business in new markets, do you fully understand them and how to adapt to them?

There are, of course, many other considerations to account for when exporting and doing business internationally. However, the good news is that none of these challenges are insurmountable. Even for SME’s with small teams and limited resources!

The Client Key runs dedicated campaigns and offers support specifically for creative companies who want to expand internationally. We are experienced in working within established overseas economies and emerging markets. Knowing how to effectively connect your business with relevant clients and markets is key. If this something your business is considering The Client Key can help and we’d love to talk: use@theclientkey.com

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What does this mean for the creative sector? Will it impact your ability to do business within the EU and will it mean the UK economy suffers as a result? There are so many ‘known unknowns’ with Brexit that it can be daunting even just contemplating the implications and changes ahead. There can be a feeling that you have little control or influence over a complex situation that directly affects your business.

However, there is one thing that can be changed and that is your own behavioural patterns and actions. As with any situation in life our behavioural patterns dictate a range of possible effects and outcomes. Do you believe that you have ‘no control’ over a complex situation like Brexit? Or, do you see it another way? That is your ability to adapt, change and react to client demands and your strategic business needs.

Big problems and challenges demand innovative thinkers – creative thinkers – who can change, influence and overcome business obstacles. The best creative minds are much in demand when a major economic challenge like Brexit comes along. How do you respond, passively, reactively or proactively? There are other opportunities (or problems, depending on your view point), such as currency fluctuation and monetary variables. The UK has potentially become an attractive (and more cost effective) place for international companies to do business with. Will you grasp these commercial opportunities or simply let them pass by?

Whatever your viewpoint, Brexit is happening and it is bringing with it seismic economic and business challenges. How you effectively sell and market to clients has never been more important. How you react to adapt your personal behaviour patterns and business strategy will dictate whether Brexit brings an abundance of opportunity or a tidal wave of problems!

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