Many business owners starting out may not consider the possibility of their business being ready for the global market. However, more than 95 percent of the world’s consumers are located beyond U.S. borders. So, if you think your business is not exposed to global markets, think again. Your website is your first connection to reaching these new consumers.
But global commerce can be a complicated undertaking if the business owner is not adequately prepared. Fortunately for those individuals, there are plenty of resources that can help.
Most business owners turn to the experts to help guide them through the many challenges that await. However, there are many who want to take the more hands on approach and seek out the knowledge and certifications to take on the different aspects of international trade on their own. That’s exactly what a certification from the National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE) does.
Becoming a Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) demonstrates that a person is proficient in global business and can navigate today’s complex global environment.
The CGBP focuses on four domains of international trade – global business management, global marketing, supply chain management and trade finance.
This designation is not to be taken lightly. It is expensive, time-consuming and requires a big commitment from the business owner.
Who should seek certification?
NASBITE currently has over 2,000 certified members from many facets of the global industry community. Commonly, certification seekers are service provider organizations, government agencies and small business owners, or their delegates
Though the CGBP may seem like an exclusive club, it is really open for any professional to join. The ideal candidate is required to have either a two or four-year degree, or at least 32 college credit hours and two years of international trade experience.
Where do I begin?
First you complete the application process, including uploading all supporting documents that prove you meet the requirements for the certifications. If you do meet the qualifications, you will be invited to take a test.
What are the challenges?
The test is very challenging. It is closed book, and consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover five “threads” of each of the four domains of international trade – documentation, legal and regulatory compliance, intercultural awareness, technology and resources.
You must score a 500 out of a possible 800. If you do not, you will be able to try again, but will have to wait for the next available testing date.
What are the benefits to obtaining a certification?
As a small business owner, it establishes that you have the knowledge and ability to navigate all areas of the global marketplace. The fact that it’s a third-party certification adds to its credibility. It will give you an unequivocal edge over your competition and shows that you know what you are talking about. That gives consumers a trust in your company that may otherwise be hard to come by.
To find out more about becoming a CGBP, please visit the NASBITE website: https://nasbite.org/membership/
Eileen Rodriguez, CGBP is the Regional Director of the Florida SBDC at University of South Florida, and a NASBITE Certified Global Business Professional.
