Day 20: Building Your Team & Finding Resources

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A strong team and reliable resources are the backbone of a successful export business. This session focuses on identifying critical skills, hiring qualified personnel, leveraging government support, connecting with trade bodies, and establishing robust logistics partnerships.

1. What Are the Essential Skills and Roles Needed for Your Export Business?

To ensure smooth operations, your export business requires a mix of technical expertise, industry knowledge, and operational capabilities:

  1. Export Manager:
    • Oversees export operations, including documentation, compliance, and client relationships.
    • Example: An export manager ensures all necessary customs paperwork is completed for an electronics shipment to Europe.
  2. Logistics Coordinator:
    • Manages transportation, warehousing, and supply chain processes.
    • Example: Coordinating the timely delivery of textiles to North American buyers.
  3. Finance and Accounts Specialist:
    • Handles payment processing, currency exchange, and tax compliance.
    • Example: Preparing GST returns and applying for duty drawback benefits.
  4. Market Research Analyst:
    • Identifies new export opportunities and tracks international market trends.
    • Example: Researching demand for Indian organic spices in Scandinavian countries.
  5. Customer Relationship Manager (CRM):
    • Builds and maintains relationships with international clients.
    • Example: Resolving delivery issues for a buyer in the Middle East.
  6. IT Specialist:
    • Manages digital tools, e-commerce platforms, and cybersecurity.
    • Example: Maintaining your export website and ensuring secure payment systems.

2. How to Recruit and Hire Qualified Personnel for Export Operations?

  1. Define Job Descriptions Clearly:
    • Specify required qualifications, skills, and responsibilities for each role.
    • Example: A logistics coordinator should have experience in international shipping and customs clearance.
  2. Use Professional Platforms:
    • Advertise job openings on LinkedIn, Naukri.com, and other recruitment platforms.
    • Example: Posting a vacancy for an export manager with expertise in DGFT compliance.
  3. Conduct Competency-Based Interviews:
    • Evaluate candidates based on their ability to handle real-world export scenarios.
    • Example: Asking how they would resolve a delayed shipment issue.
  4. Provide Ongoing Training:
    • Offer regular workshops and certifications to enhance team skills.
    • Example: Training team members on INCOTERMS 2020 and export documentation.
  5. Utilize Internships and Apprenticeships:
    • Partner with universities or trade schools to recruit fresh talent.
    • Example: Hiring interns to assist with market research or client follow-ups.

3. How to Leverage Government Resources and Support Programs for Exporters?

  1. Export Promotion Councils (EPCs):
    • Collaborate with councils like FIEO, APEDA, and SEPC for guidance and resources.
    • Example: FIEO offers training on trade policies and market opportunities.
  2. Government Incentive Schemes:
    • Utilize schemes like RoDTEP and EPCG to reduce costs.
    • Example: Claiming duty refunds on exported goods through RoDTEP.
  3. Skill Development Programs:
    • Enroll employees in government-organized export training programs.
    • Example: Participating in the Niryat Bandhu Scheme for export education.
  4. Funding and Credit Support:
    • Access financing options like ECGC and SIDBI export loans.
    • Example: Securing pre-shipment financing through an Export Credit Guarantee.
  5. Export Facilitation Portals:
    • Use platforms like DGFT’s digital portal for simplified trade processes.

4. How to Build Relationships with Industry Associations and Trade Bodies?

  1. Join Relevant Associations:
    • Membership in trade bodies like CII, ASSOCHAM, or industry-specific councils provides networking opportunities.
    • Example: Joining APEDA for agri-product exporters to gain market insights.
  2. Participate in Trade Events:
    • Attend seminars, webinars, and trade fairs organized by industry associations.
    • Example: Presenting products at a trade fair hosted by the India-Africa Chamber of Commerce.
  3. Seek Mentorship:
    • Connect with experienced exporters through these associations for advice.
  4. Stay Updated:
    • Use newsletters and reports from trade bodies to stay informed about regulatory changes and market trends.

5. How to Find Logistics and Supply Chain Partners for Efficient Exports?

  1. Research Logistics Providers:
    • Identify shipping companies, freight forwarders, and warehouse operators with a strong international presence.
    • Example: Partnering with DHL or FedEx for fast and reliable shipments.
  2. Evaluate Services and Costs:
    • Compare costs, transit times, and value-added services like insurance.
    • Example: Choosing a logistics partner offering end-to-end solutions, including customs clearance.
  3. Consider Specialized Partners:
    • Select partners experienced in handling your product type.
    • Example: Cold chain logistics providers for exporting perishable goods like fruits and vegetables.
  4. Leverage Freight Aggregators:
    • Use platforms like Freightos for comparing multiple logistics providers.
  5. Establish Long-Term Relationships:
    • Build trust with reliable partners for consistent service and better pricing.

Caution Disclaimer

“For further in-depth details, importers/exporters are advised to visit authenticated government websites such as DGFT, RBI, or other official platforms to ensure compliance and accuracy. The content provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended to substitute official guidelines or advice. Tradefinancer.com does not assume liability for any discrepancies or errors that may arise.”

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