International Flying Lessons, Raketista-Style

A raketista perk: You own your own time.
Sweet deal, huh? But have you maximized that? Since you're not controlled by some kind of 9 to 5 rule, why not spread your wings a little to make bigger business?

Raketista folks... it's time to go international!

I usually get overseas clients by word of mouth. A friend who works abroad gets asked for a local lead, he puts in a good word me, I get a call.  You can scout around online, too. You'll be amazed at how many offsite corporations are on the look out for local talents to do their networking bidding.

To get you started though, you'll need some tools (see attached metaphorical weaponry on illustration's metaphorical wings).

WORLD CLOCK
This phone app is about to be your best friend. It tells you the different time zones so you know when to expect a call from your client. Simple enough? With me so far? Let's move on.

GOOD PHONE PLAN + GOOD INTERNET PACKAGE
When working with people a thousand miles away, the last thing you need is a dropped call or a crashed internet connection. Invest on smooth communication.

HIGHTAIL
Or WeTransfer or MailBigFile, and the like. Initially, so you can send out your big-filed portfolio. Eventually, when you need to send out your FAs or TVC edits... fast.

SKYPE 
Or GoogleChat and its contemporaries. While you can do online chats or dial-in conferences, some clients do prefer to put a face to your working relationship. Thank God you can wear your pajama bottoms while doing this!

BIG, FAT, EXTRA EFFICIENT FILING SYSTEM 
Hello, vendor forms! Expect to be sent tons of documentation on accreditation, confidentiality, rules and regulations. Accomplish these fast and keep them categorized and tucked away. Remember that not one client is the same as the other. Every now and then, you'll need to go back to these files for review.

PAYPAL
Payment time! Paypal offers easy-peasey application and transaction. 'Nuff said.

SORT CODE, SWIFT CODE, ROUTING CODE, IBAN CODE
Some clients would prefer bank-to-bank transactions though. So make sure you have all your bank details on international money transfers. You can score some of these online. But I'd say it's safer to get them straight from your bank's mouth.

PASSPORT
Just in case your client decides to give you a free trip to her country of origin. (silent 'Booyeah!') Juuust in case.

Now these tools are important so you don't get lost in the middle of the trade. So you avoid delays, misunderstanding, ruining new relationships even before they've begun, and getting yourself pissed off in the process.

If you're serious about broadening your horizon and taking on a foreign business landscape, heed my words and gear up.
You can ask any winged creature out there --NOBODY wants to fly blind.


*Fab background vectors from freepik.com.

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