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High-speed internet and communications innovations allow even small businesses to participate in the global economy, working with clients and partners on the other side of the world. While an international client base may be the key to substantial growth, it can complicate several core aspects of your business, from hardware compatibility to accounts receivable management. Here are a few tips to help your business minimize potential pitfalls if you’re beginning to work with international clients.

5 Tips for Working With International Clients

1. Be Aware of Time Zone Differences

Depending on the location of your international clients, they may be several hours ahead or closed before your office even opens. If your project requires live communication, you may need your team to adjust their schedules or ask your clients to be available for phone and conference calls at odd hours.

2. Be Clear About the Payment Terms

When negotiating a contract, be sure to specify what currency you will accept as payment and when invoices are due. This shifts the burden of exchange rate fees on the client and avoids potentially confusing accounts receivable management issues.

3. Have Your Contract Reviewed by an Attorney

accounts receivable managementEnforcing certain provisions of a sales contract may be difficult if the other party is located in another country. Even if you have successfully used your standard contract for years, have it reviewed by an international business attorney before submitting it to your new client.

4. Understand the Culture

Business practices in other cultures may be drastically different from what you’re used to, even if your international clientele is in an English-speaking country. For instance, Japanese business culture tends to reward silence and eschew the hard-sell approach often favored by Americans. Understanding these distinctions will help build solid relationships with your international clients.

5. Find an Experienced Debt Collection Agency

Collecting on unpaid accounts can be extremely difficult when the other party resides in another country. A collection agency with experience working across national borders will have the tools and expertise to ensure your company collects the funds you’re owed.

 

If your business is branching out internationally, Joseph, Mann & Creed in Twinsburg, OH, offers experience you can rely on and a reputation you can trust. Since 2001, they’ve been handling international debt collection and accounts receivable management for companies across the country, building a reputation for efficiency, effectiveness, and integrity. Visit their website for more on their accounts receivable management services, call (216) 831-5626 to discuss your needs with a member of their team, and keep in touch on LinkedIn.

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