The world is becoming increasingly globalized, and as such, entrepreneurs are willing to travel halfway around the world to secure a new client. If you’re looking to ‘woo’ a potential customer, we’ve put together some tips and tricks when meeting with them abroad…
Familiarize yourself
If you’re meeting a client in Paris on a Tuesday and you’ve never been before, consider the benefits of traveling down a day or two early to familiarize yourself with the area, especially if you’re planning to offer services to them in their country. Not only will a day or two of sightseeing allow you to get into the mindset and culture, but it’ll give you some time to get to know your surroundings and feel more confident when you arrange to meet your client.
Learn the language
Though challenging, picking up the basics of your client’s native language will demonstrate your commitment to working with them and impress their colleagues. Download an app on your phone for the flight and watch some tutorials on YouTube, and you’ll soon know how to greet and small talk with the locals. And who knows? You might decide to master the language, which could unlock business opportunities for you outside of your native country.
Arrange an event
Hosting an event for your clients will show them that you care about their business. And the best part is that you don’t have to do it on your own; instruct the help of a travel company like Barcelonina, who host corporate events in Barcelona. They can find the perfect venue for your meetings, manage restaurant reservations, provide you with transfers, and much more, streamlining the process and ensuring you look professional and in charge at all times.
Host them at your hotel
The chances are that you’ve booked yourself and your team into a swanky city-center hotel on your travels, so consider inviting them there for an evening of good food and business talk. Opting for a public space rather than their offices will allow everyone to let their hair down and get to know each other on a more relaxed level, away from the boardroom and the stuffy business attire. Impress, and you might just secure a big contract after a few dances!
Be prepared
Though you’ll be excited about traveling to another country and finding some time to explore the sights and foods it has to offer, it’s important that you’re fully prepared for your meetings and that you know what you’re talking about. It can be tough to stay focused when you’re distracted, so planning a presentation before you get there and running through speeches and pitches in your hotel will help you stay laser-focused and complete the task at hand. And remember: if you don’t do enough to impress on your visit, you’ll have wasted a journey.
There’s no denying that traveling for business can be fun and exciting, but considering the points we have raised above is critical. We wish you good luck on your trip, and safe travels.
