Small companies account for a surprising one-third of U.S. exports, and their market
share is growing. The Internet has played a major role in helping these companies
develop an increasingly powerful international presence. Global E-Commerce
Strategies for Small Businesses describes the export opportunities e-commerce holds
for small-to-medium size enterprises (SMEs) all over the world. The book is organized
in two parts. The first uses examples and case studies of small exporting companies
from six countries to show how SMEs and new entrepreneurs are not only successful
but also often responsible for job creation, innovation, and economic growth in their
regions. It also examines common obstacles to exports such as local and international
laws, cultural differences, trade barriers, taxation, and transport infrastructure. The
second part covers the steps in setting up a global business: researching business
opportunities, identifying and reach out to customers, building and keeping an online
image, closing the deal, and maintaining customer support. Written in a casual, accessible
style, the book offers an overview of the tools and services available to help
smaller companies flourish in the global marketplace.