International Business home

To learn more about company president John Parrish and his extensive international background, click here.

Q: I want to establish my business in a foreign country. How long should I expect it to take to get my business up and running?

A: The time will vary greatly depending upon how many business contacts and what type of infrastructure you have established in that country. Also, how much demand there is for your product will be a factor. If you have a good support team, you can expect it to take 2-3 years. If you don't have an established presence, it will take much longer.

Q: What needs to be my greatest strength to be successful in another country?

A: You will need patience and lots of it. Because you are in a different country, you will have to do business like it is done in that country. Normally, you will not be able to "just import" the way you do business in the U.S. into that country. Therefore, you need to be prepared to adapt and to be flexible. The most successful U.S. businesses in other countries are the ones that have been able to successfully take their strengths and merge them with the business culture in that country.

Q: Why do I need a consultant like you to help me with my international business? You may not know anything about my business. Therefore, what value add do you provide?

A: First, it is important to ensure that a consultant is really an expert in the country you are interested in. I have an extensive background in some specific countries. If the country you are interested in, happens to be one that I have experience in, then the networks I have established over the years in those countries with successful businessmen and government officials can help you understand upfront what it takes to be successful in that country. I can help you avoid the pitfalls that can either derail or severely cripple your efforts, and I can put you in contact with local government officials and businessmen who can help you or team with you.

Q: What are the countries you have experience in?

A: If you are interested in doing business in Australia, Taiwan, Thailand, Israel, Norway, Singapore or Turkey, I probably will be able to help you. If your interests are in Japan, Korea, United Kingdom, or Malaysia, I may be able to help you directly, or I may be able to put you in contact with an associate who can help you.