In the beginning, all you want to do is grow your brand in your local area. Then, you want to expand into the nearest big town and city. Before long, hopefully, your name will ring out across the whole of the United States. Wow, that is some achievement because the USA is a vast country with hundreds of millions of people. You’ve worked hard, and now you have daily thoughts on how to boost your global presence and realize that the time is now to make that leap.

It’s a wise move, one expected of a savvy businesswoman such as yourself. Think about the best and biggest corporations on the planet. Apple; Microsoft; Coca-c=Cola – they are international. You are a high-achieving woman, and they’re businesses with bottomless budgets.” Exposure beyond your expected reach provides you with opportunities to spread your message and show off your skills and expertise.

Developing an international brand is never easy, but it’s not as difficult as you might imagine. Here are five foundations for businesswomen to follow in their quest to establish a global presence.

Research and Plan

Nothing screams “I’m here” better than expansion into a new country. When you have a universal message, why not take steps to have it heard? However, before doing so, understand that due diligence in the form of extensive research and a detailed business plan is vital. For more, check out www.forbes.com and the ten key steps outlined.

Set High Standards

When looking to expand your business into uncharted territory, it is essential to ensure word of mouth “advertising” about you is positive. It’s crucial to set high standards and produce a high quality of work – consistently. If your name is linked to a project, even in the smallest way, it is in your best interest that the feedback is impeccable. One way to ensure this is to pick and choose projects and associations carefully. Also, be selective and don’t take on dozens in a similar timeframe.

Look And Act Professional

Dressing to impress is and always will be a power play for a female entrepreneur. Make sure that your brand, inclusive of your attire and your behavior is in alignment with the industry and associates you’re looking to do business with abroad. Let’s say you’re heading to the UK for argument’s sake, and need to host a meeting. This scenario is pretty impressive in itself as not every businesswoman coming from the U.S. has contacts in London. There are two potential problems, though – money and resources. If either is limited, there’s a very slim chance that you’re going to make a sound first impression. A virtual office is one answer, and you can visit www.yourvirtualofficelondon.co.uk for inspiration. Companies that specialize in this line of business provide beautiful spaces for the entrepreneur on-the-go. And, no one will know that you don’t rent or own it outright -unless you choose to share of course.

Go Viral, Go International!

If the thought of jet-setting makes you feel tired, don’t fret because there’s another option when it comes to the plan to boost your global presence. It’s called going viral, and this method is what helps YouTube “sensations” go from teenagers playing video games to millionaires. If you don’t already have one, establish a channel on youtube.com  You can videotape your speaking engagements and hold seminars and post them there. With a sound social media presence and strategic promotional strategy, there will be no stopping your momentum, and you don’t have to leave your home to do it.

Create A Team

You’re a strong woman, but you can’t do it alone. There is just too much involved if the goal is to make you a household name beyond your hometown. Instead, create a team with the same ethics and values that understand the international market. Remember that they are representatives, and their work, good or bad will reflect on one person: you. Therefore, choose wisely.

*Collaborative post