Many companies enter the global market by accident. In fact, you might have an invitation sitting on your desk right now. Did you R.S.V.P.?

If you said, “not yet,” then you are not alone. Emails from potential international customers go unanswered time and again. Finally, a brave manager takes the leap and makes the company’s first sale to a customer outside of the United States – often in Canada, Europe, or Australia. Soon, you respond to more and more international customers and become an accidental exporter.

Look for your invitation. You might be the next accidental exporter if:

• You receive inquiries from other countries about your products. Often, customers find you because you offer higher quality or more variety than their own country. When this happens, it might be time to start thinking more seriously about your invitation.
• Your competitors export. If the competition finds customers in other countries, then you probably could, too. And, you might not have to go head to head. In fact, you may find overseas markets to be less competitive than the U.S., making it easier to win new sales.
• You sell a seasonal product. As summer turns to winter in the U.S., things start to sizzle below the equator – Brazil’s peak bikini season is January and February. Selling your seasonal products abroad can keep cash flowing throughout the year.

Whether you’re an accidental exporter or a strategic global operation, UPS is here to help. Visit ups.com/international to explore tools and resources that can help you go global.

Watch the video below to learn about reaching your new customer.