Export Communications Review
An export communications review provides companies with impartial and objective advice about addressing language and cultural barriers when trading with overseas markets. The review aims to assist companies to develop effective communication strategies for overseas markets and improve their overall international competitiveness.
How does it work?
The review involves an in-depth discussion with a communications consultant who will then prepare a report detailing the strengths and weaknesses of current communications and providing practical recommendations on how they can be improved. The consultant will carry out the review at your company’s premises and submit the report within ten working days.
There are three levels of review, the most popular being the one-day initial review, where your ECR consultant will typically spend between two and four hours with key personnel carrying out the audit. If you wish to explore more than a couple of potential markets you may well be advised to have the intermediate or full three-day review.
How can it help you?
An export communications review can assist your company to:
- Find new markets – by considering new markets that you previously thought too difficult.
- Go out and actively seek new business rather than waiting for it to come to you.
- Be confident in approaching language service providers for help, by giving you knowledge of prices and suppliers.
- Improve relationships with overseas customers and distributors by enabling effective communications.
Are you eligible to apply?
An export communications review is open to companies who:
- Are UK based and have been trading for a minimum of 2 years.
- Currently export or have plans in place to start exporting.
- Export goods or services that are mainly of UK origin.
What are the costs?
Financial support is available to companies with fewer than 250 employees and an initial review costs from only £500 (+VAT). West Midlands companies who are already engaged on the Passport to Export scheme, together with any other qualifying companies, are eligible for a subsidy of £350 towards the cost of the review.
The review can be purchased in stages to meet company needs - a review may involve up to three visits, depending upon the size of company and the extent of its product range and export activity.
Who provides an ECR?
The Export Communications Review is a UK Trade and Investment scheme delivered by the British Chambers of Commerce. Export Communications Consultants are all independent and have experience in the language and cultural needs of international trade.
How can I find out more?
Many local companies have taken advantage of the support available to increase international trade. For more information on Export Communications Reviews in the West Midlands contact local ECR consultant Angela Maxwell.
Alternatively, you can download the latest ECR flyer (pdf 290 KB), visit the Export Zone at www.chamberonline.co.uk or send an e-mail to ecr@britishchambers.org.uk
To read case studies of other companies who have benefited from such help or to apply for an export communications review visit www.chamberonline.co.uk/exportzone/ecr
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