How do I get started in Europe... ?

A SWOT analysis may help you understand the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of your product in relationship with European markets, Also, determine if your products comply with European legislation. You may find the answer on this website (http://ec.europa.eu). In addition take into account the European metric system and/or the different power requirements, just to name a few. Once a fit with European demand has been determined, you can either send over personnel to meet with potential European partners or you may decide to work with a local hands-on marketing and sales company. Make sure you are frequently updated on their progress just as you would require from in-house account managers thus keeping a grip on your investment. Please contact us should you have any additional questions. We shall gladly answer them.

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Where can I find an overview of distributors... ?

Well, the larger ones can easily be found on the internet. Using search words in the local language shall probably give you some accurate hits. The draw back with these companies is that they represent so many manufacturers, your product will really have to make a difference (margin, features, ease of use etc.) to have their sales force pay attention to it. It is our experience that these large distributors gladly secure the product just in case it should become successful. But then the manufacturer has done all the marketing. The smaller distributors are much harder to identify but they are eager to grow their business. Or those who wish to penetrate new markets with enthusiams and seek the appropriate suppliers.

Hence, finding the right business partner means you need to go out, meet with experts, visit events and reach out directly to potential partners in order to set up a winning team. There is no such extensive list on the internet with up to date information and contact details.

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Why must I offer multilingual brochures ... ?

Europe speaks 23 languages. For the majority English is not a native language and most cannot or will not discuss a partnership in English. The same goes for most consumers; product information should be in their native language. The European Union has ruled that most manuals should be written in the local language (please check their website to learn more). To reach out to Europeans addressing them in their native language will increase your result dramatically.

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Who is looking after our interests in Sales4Sales... ?

You will be working with a dedicated team. We do not switch teams during the assignment although teams update one another on progress. This helps should unforeseen developments require a change or additional support. Your dedicated contact will update you frequenlty on progress and send you Contact Reports after each meeting with potential business partners or customers. 

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What are the major mistakes when dealing with Germans... ?

European languages have different ways to address people. Age, standing and respect determine the words used. In English it is only 'you', in German there are multiple ways. Showing respect is important and must be taken into account seriously. Consequently, your contact is to be addressed by his family name until he or she indicates you can use their first name. Also, use their title when addressing them, they are proud of it. Dress up correctly, be polite and do what is expected from you. Need more advice? Contact us, it's important to understand this correctly.

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When can we expect results from your approach ... ?

Our approach starts with an analysis of the current situation in the targeted markets. This gives an extensive overview of how and where to position your product. With that information we determine the potential partners to contact and plan our meetings. The lead time greatly depends on the number of people the potential business partner wants to have involved and the features of the product offered. Based on the type of product you're offering we determine the approach and its mile stones. It helps to understand what has been achieved and what still needs to be done. We frequently send Contact and Progress Reports and preferably discuss our way forward on the phone.  We are as open about our progress as you would like your own staff to be, follow up on meetings and work our way towards securing your new business partners or corporate customers.

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