In today’s dynamic job market, the hiring landscape is rapidly evolving. Employers are shifting focus from traditional qualifications to prioritizing practical expertise and tangible skills. This move towards skills-based hiring is transforming the job market, creating both new prospects and challenges for professionals looking to progress in global trade. 

Keeping pace with these changes, FITT sees continued value in offering practical training and credentials to address the current challenges in global business and reflect professionals’ earned skills and knowledge. 

In this brief recap, we invite you to celebrate the achievements of the FITT learning community in 2023 – a testament to resilience, dedication, and the transformative impact of education. 

It’s inspiring to observe the vast number of individuals from varied sectors, job positions, and organizations who have dedicated themselves to enhancing their skill sets and achieving their professional objectives by obtaining FITT credentials in 2023. 

FITT Certificate earners: Nurturing the next generation of trade experts

The FITT Certificate in International Trade is presented to individuals who’ve successfully completed any 3 FITTskills courses, or the equivalency thereof. In 2023, 263 new FITT Certificate holders emerged, showcasing the program’s continued relevance and impact. Notable organizations such as Global Affairs Canada, MUJI, Invest Alberta Corporation, Sumol+Compal Marcas SA, Block 4 Oilfield, LLC, North Atlantic, Export Québec, La Molienda and World Intec Co are now home to professionals equipped with FITT Certificates. 

Geographically, the FITT Certificate holders are making their mark in Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe. The job roles, including Trade Commissioner, International Trade Advisor, CEO, and Export Consultant, reflect the diverse career paths of those who started the training to get the FITT Certificate.

Value of FITTskills Courses: 89% of respondents find FITTskills courses valuable. – 2023 FITT Customer Satisfaction Report

FITT Diploma holders: A growing force in global business

The FITT Diploma in International Trade holders are on the rise, with 487 graduates joining the league in 2023.

87% of respondents find FITTskills courses relevant to their jobs and responsibilities. – 2023 FITT Customer Satisfaction Report

The number of FITT Diploma holders not only eclipses the previous year’s count but also emphasizes the increasing importance placed on trusted international trade credentials. This year’s FITT Diploma earners span diverse sectors, including agriculture, food, manufacturing, finance, logistics, and technology.

The extensive list of companies these diploma holders are now associated with includes enterprises like RBC Royal Bank of Canada, TD Bank Group, Epiroc, SGS Canada Inc., Haya Solutions Inc., Coca-Cola Bottling, and Tjx Canada. From government agencies to private enterprises, the FITT 2023 Diploma holders are weaving a rich tapestry across the international trade spectrum. 

Their reach extends globally, with professionals working with business divisions located in Europe, Latin and North America, Asia, and East Africa.  

Among the Diploma holders, the job roles include Export Sales Manager, Business Development Officer, Commercial Officer, Project Manager, Import & Export Analyst, Supply Chain Specialist and more. 

Having gained expertise in the 6 key  knowledge areas that make up the FITTskills program, the FITT Diploma holders have achieved one of the main requirements to apply for the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation.  

CITPs: A community of validated trade leaders represented world wide

The Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation stands as a beacon of excellence in global trade. With CITPs present in 47 countries, the community represents a network of certified international trade practitioners, contributing to various sectors and industries. 

The list includes a wide range of job positions, spanning from Trade Commissioners, Managers, Directors, and Presidents, to various specialized roles in logistics, finance, law, marketing, supply chain management, and education.  

The company list exhibits a diverse array of industries, ranging from government and trade organizations, such as Global Affairs Canada and Export Development Canada, to educational institutions like the University of Calgary and Niagara College. It also includes technology giants like IBM and Google, manufacturing and aerospace companies such as Airbus Helicopters and Teck Resources, as well as consulting firms like Deloitte. The presence of financial institutions, retailers, healthcare, logistics, and mining companies underscores the broad spectrum of sectors involved in international trade and business development. 

From professionals who specialize in logistics, law, finance, and education, CITPs are leading the charge in shaping the future of international trade and business development. 

FITT continues the mission of advancing the international trade profession. The growing numbers of FITT Diploma and Certificate Holders, coupled with the global presence of CITPs, paint a picture of a community that is not only expanding, but also influencing the trajectory of global commerce.

As we reflect on the accomplishments of FITT’s learning community in 2023, we anticipate an even more impactful journey ahead, shaping the future leaders of international trade. Whether you’re a government official, a private sector professional, an aspiring entrepreneur or a leader looking for training to upskill your team, you can be inspired by the 2023 FITT credential achievers and begin your own journey through skills development and professional certification.

More than ever, validated skills are the gateway to success in the complex world of international trade. 

The post From public to private sector, Europe to Africa and beyond – here are the 2023 FITT credential achievers appeared first on Trade Ready.

At the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT), we have many examples of great leadership, but no one outshines our President and CEO, Caroline Tompkins, who has helmed and transformed FITT into a Canadian and international success over the past 25 years. Today, we celebrate her story and remarkable achievements.

With a background in professional development, Caroline joined the FITT team in 1996, progressing the company forward with notable achievements right away. In her first year, she helped introduce the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) program which allowed individuals to use their previous education and work experience toward FITTskills credits. This program broadened the international trade community and created fair standards for global business professionals across the board.

Not long after, she led the development and launch of the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation in 1998. The first designation of its kind in the world, it is now in its twenty-third year and is comprised of designation holders from more than 20 countries—solidifying FITT and the CITP®|FIBP® as the global standard for international trade training.

From there, she had many more milestones, with the following being just a handful of her many:

1998 – The first FITT National Conference

FITT’s first annual National Conference was held in 1998, creating quality professional development and networking for CITPs, FITT members, international trade professionals and students. 

1999 – The launch of FITTskills Online 

Expanding outside the classroom, FITTskills Online made international trade training available to everyone, everywhere, including professionals outside of Canada.

2001 – FITT begins accrediting international trade programs

FITT began accrediting academic institutions and organizations that provided international business courses, giving students more options for attaining the educational requirements of the CITP designation.

2002 – The launch of the FITT Educational Awards 

The FITT Educational Awards were created to recognize individual students for their outstanding performance in the study of international business.

2007 – Recognition from the World Trade Centers Association

The World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) recognized the CITP designation as a standard of excellence for its staff and clientele involved in international commerce.

2013 – FITT completes its International Trade HR Sector Study

FITT completed its International Trade HR Sector Study, a report providing an innovative analysis of workforce barriers to Canada’s success in international trade and offering a national strategy for overcoming those barriers.

2015 – International Competency Standards (ICS) Project

Nearly 120 international business professionals from across Canada and the globe gathered to take part in focus groups and validation sessions that helped FITT create world-class industry standards for global trade—defining exactly what it takes to outperform the competition.

2016 – Competency Framework developed

As the first of its kind ever created for international trade, the Framework reflects current and future practices and contains standards for multiple international trade occupations. The competencies within the framework describe the fusion of knowledge, skills and abilities required to be successful in the evolving integrative trade business environment.

2016 – CITP Competency Profile 3rd edition launched

The 2016 Certified International Trade Competency Profile reflects the skills and knowledge individuals need to obtain the CITP®|FIBP® designation and to use in their work worldwide. 

2017– FITT’s 25th anniversary and Your Future 2017 Conference

FITT celebrated its 25th anniversary with several events throughout the year, including a global conference featuring international trade’s brightest minds, and culminated in a formalized partnership between Export Development Canada (EDC) and FITT to deliver enhanced trade education to businesses and trade professionals.

2017 –The launch of FITTskills 7th edition

The 7th edition of the FITTskills courses was the most significant update to the course material in several years. Designed by business for business, the 7th edition is a leading-edge, practical program designed to teach all the most important skills and knowledge industry professionals needed to achieve global business success.

2018 – Launch of EDC-FITT International Trade Learning Centre

Export Development Canada (EDC) and FITT launched their collaborative online learning platform, a powerful initiative to support the next generation of trade leaders in 2018. The EDC-FITT International Trade Learning Centre serves as a digital platform that offers courses, workshops and other knowledge-based resources for international business professionals who want to deepen their expertise.

2018 – 20th anniversary of CITP

The CITP®|FIBP® designation continues to accelerate both in international reputation and standards. With active graduates in over 20 countries around the world and an expansive network of pioneering trade professionals gaining from its body of knowledge, it continues to impress as the global standard for international trade training and excellence.

Passion above all else.

To be truly good at what you do, you must have passion for your work. Caroline exemplifies her passion for international trade through a wealth of education, volunteer and work experience. She is a CITP, Certified Association Executive (CAE) and serves as a Director for the National Association of International Trade Educators (NASBITE) in the United States. She has also worked for numerous international bodies, including the United Nations in Bosnia-Herzegovina during 1994-1995.

In an interview with the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS), she explained her love for her work and, specifically, the CITP designation by noting that it “represents FITT’s leadership role in the evolution, maturation and growth of international trade as a profession. We are so proud that Canada was the first country in the world to start looking at international trade not just as a business transaction.”

With each milestone and achievement in FITT’s growth, she’s never lost sight of its true vision, though:

“What has never changed is our core purpose: building competence in international trade. Our make‑or‑break position—the one thing we have to do exceptionally well to meet our core purpose—is to ensure that we have reliable, credible and current know-how on how to do business internationally.”

Notable to many.

Caroline’s roots within the international trade and export community are deep and respected. Her impact has been felt and recognized with many awards and accolades, including the Peter Bentley Scholarship for the University of British Columbia’s Residential Programme for Executive Development, recognition as one of Chatelaine’s notable women in the Who’s Who of Canadian Women in 1999-2000, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her outstanding contribution to Canada’s trade community in 2012.

Strong leaders build strong teams.

The best leaders are only as strong as their team, and in recognizing this, they build respect among their peers. Sometimes the best way to see how well they are really doing is to listen to what others have to say about them—and there is no shortage of admiration for Caroline from colleagues and members of the board. FITT’s founding father, Dieter Hollweck says of Caroline:

“Caroline, you are part of every part of FITT as you were there from its inception, early development, production, national to international development, and marketing and sales—all through thick and thin ice. Your guidance, wisdom and dedicated professional management with your team has made FITT  the brand leader in international trade training and standards that it is today. It means so much to so many in Canada, as well as to others in the world.

He adds, “BRAVO, Caroline and much success with FITT and to you and your team in the future. My song choice to represent you is Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots Are Made for Walking ” and that is what you did Caroline, during every step of that very, very long road!”

John  Treleaven, CITP, former FITT Director and Current Board Director had similar sentiments, noting:

“Many talented and motivated people have contributed to the success of this organization. When the history of FITT is written two names will be given special attention: Dieter Hollweck, on whose idea we have all been working since the beginning, and Caroline Tompkins, whose talents and commitment to the organization and the cause are responsible for where we are today.

He continues, “This is not an appraisal report, Caroline, rather it is an opportunity for me, and many others, to thank you for all you have done to make FITT into what it has become. The twenty-five years we all celebrate today saw many challenges, barriers, failures of logic, head fakes, commitment lapses, policy changes, competition (often from the least likely of sources), crisis in the Canadian and global economies. Through all of this you guided, motivated and inspired the FITT Team, stakeholders and partners. Thank you. For me, there is also a song in the 1960s version of “My Fair Lady” that sums up my feelings and I am sure those of my colleagues about Caroline and FITT. It’s called, “You did it!”

Silvia Baptista, FITT’s Vice President echoes the sentiments, stating: “I have been working with Caroline for almost 16 years. Although it is important to love your job, which I do, I truly feel that it is equally—if not more important —to like the people you work with. I feel very grateful to work with Caroline, and can speak for the rest of the FITT team when I say that she is respected and valued by her team, she inspires and challenges us on the daily, she takes accountability, and she has created a supportive and unified environment. Caroline, I know you are proud of your team, but we are just as proud to work with you. On behalf of all FITT employees, thank you for being our fearless leader!”

Similarly, Alberto Quiroz, FITT Chair of the Board of Directors has glowing accolades: “I met Caroline around 1997 when I got my first diploma in International Trade, when I started my involvement with FITT. The thought of becoming the Chair of the Board of Directors never crossed my mind at the time. As I reflect on my involvement at FITT, it was thanks to Caroline’s invitation to collaborate. Once involved, I witnessed her passion in making FITT the best organization it can be. We are where we are thanks to her hard work and dedication. Thank you, Caroline and congratulations on your anniversary!”

Angela Kraus, Vice President of Marketing and Membership Development at Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership and FITT Board Director, agrees, stating: “Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership has been a longstanding supporter of FITT and Caroline’s work. Her contribution to FITT has been immense and her enthusiasm for the organization is inspiring.  I want to thank Caroline for her dedication and congratulate her on 25 years!”

Duane McMullen, Director General of Trade Operations at the Trade Commissioner Service of Global Affairs Canada kept the compliments going, saying: “Through FITT, Caroline can look with pride and satisfaction at the impact her leadership has had on many thousands of professionals around the world.”

Always one to take initiative and tackle challenges head-on while fostering and growing those around her, Caroline is admired and appreciated by those at FITT and beyond. We wish her a happy anniversary and hope for many more years of inspirational work to come!

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The Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) is collaborating with The Organization of Women in International Trade (OWIT) International, to support the advancement of women and the professional growth of OWIT members with expert trade training, resources and certification.

OWIT is a non-profit, professional organization that provides access to networking, education and professional development opportunities for more than 2,000 men and women in over 20 countries in all continents worldwide.

FITT and OWIT are working together to boost their members global trade competencies, professional growth and business opportunities. OWIT members will enjoy access to global trade training from FITT at an exclusive member-only price, as well as benefits such as networking, international business resources and the opportunity to obtain their professional global trade certification, the official CITP®|FIBP® designation.

The Forum for International Trade Training, FITT

The Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing international business training, resources and professional certification to individuals and businesses.

Whether you’re looking to grow your business, invest in personal development for your employees, or meet your own personal career goals, the right training and certification can help you enhance your knowledge and credibility, stand out from the competition and take advantage of opportunities.

Endorsed by and in collaboration with Export Development Canada (EDC), FITT provides training courses that give you the world’s most up-to-date, industry-validated global trade information available. The courses are created with the help of many experts working in the global trade industry, to ensure all material is tailored to help you develop the practical skills and competencies you need to succeed in meeting the everyday demands of international business.

FITT’s online courses and workshops enable you to pursue your self-directed training whenever and wherever it’s convenient for you. Target the global trade topics that matter most to you or your business or complete all of the courses and earn your CITP (Certified International Trade Professional) designation.

FITT’s international business training programs and professional designation (CITP®|FIBP®) have become the standard of excellence for global trade professionals across Canada and around the world.

What is the CITP?

The CITP®|FIBP®, the world’s 1st professional designation for international business professionals is recognized worldwide as the mark of highest competence in global trade. The CITP designation helps professionals enhance their skills, knowledge and credibility in all aspects of international business.

Who is the CITP for? Professionals in all different stages of their careers, including business owners, experienced executives, and anyone who is just starting out or already working in international business can benefit from certification that officially validates their professional competency.

Endorsed by the World Trade Centers Association and the Government of Canada, the CITP®|FIBP® designation is held by global trade professionals in over 40 countries and growing.

The benefits of joining OWIT

OWIT offers webinars, conferences, networking opportunities as well as resources where members can find speakers, consultants and advisors on international business and trade.

Some of the most rewarding benefits of OWIT membership come from participation in the networking, educational, and professional growth opportunities available through a local OWIT chapter. Members can take advantage of a broad range of opportunities to advance their professional and personal growth. Events organized by chapters reflect the diversity and range of chapter locations and members’ interests.

You can become a member of OWIT by joining an existing local chapter, the ‘virtual chapter’, or by starting your own chapter. The option to join the ‘virtual chapter’ works well for individuals who do not have access to a local OWIT chapter where they reside or work.

Once you join your local OWIT chapter, or the virtual chapter, you automatically become a member of OWIT International, giving you access to the OWIT International network.

Join or learn more about OWIT.

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The Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) is proud to announce Allyson Fraser as the recipient of Export Development Canada (EDC) – Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) Student Internship for 2019. Allyson will work with EDC’s Exporter Outreach Group.

Getting the work experience to attain the CITP designation

The EDC – FITT student internship is offered annually to one full-time student who has successfully completed the FITTskills international business program. This one-year internship is designed to aid this individual by giving them the work experience necessary to apply for their Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation. The FITT CITP designation is the world’s leading professional designation for global business practitioners.

EDC is Canada’s export credit agency, offering information, knowledge and innovative commercial solutions to help Canadian exporters and investors expand their international business. EDC’s knowledge and partnerships are used by more than 10,000 Canadian companies and their global customers in up to 200 markets worldwide each year.

Graduate of International Business program

Allyson Fraser is a graduate of Algonquin College’s Business Administration – International Business program, which has been accredited by FITT.

“Before going to Algonquin College, international trade was not a field that I knew much about. The first Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) course that I took was Global Business Environment; it was a great introduction to the rest of the FITT curriculum and built a solid foundation that I was excited to build upon.

As I continued through my program, I found that the classes built upon FITT were my favourite. The training was very comprehensive, and the final projects were built upon realistic scenarios that one would face while attempting to engage in international trade. I was impressed by the fact that my final projects counted toward both my class grade and the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation.

My father is a small business owner and I have seen first-hand how much goes into owning and operating a local business. After graduating the program, I felt empowered to help other entrepreneurs like him grow their businesses by engaging in international trade. The EDC x FITT Intern position will give me the chance to do exactly that and I could not be more thrilled!”

The Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) offers a sincere congratulations to Allyson for being chosen for this unique opportunity and extends best wishes to Allyson for future success in her chosen field of international trade!

The post Congratulations to the newest EDC-FITT Student Intern of 2019! appeared first on Trade Ready.

Starting today, EDC and FITT have launched their first collaborative online training product, a powerful tool for Canada’s next generation of trade leaders.

It’s called EDC-FITT International Trade Training – a digital platform that offers courses and workshops for exporters new to the game, thinking about getting into it or looking to deepen their expertise.

Back in October, EDC announced a five-year collaboration with the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) with the goal of making international trade knowledge more accessible to professionals. EDC-FITT Training, now live and open for registration, is the first product of this partnership.

“Empowering global business professionals to be high performers through practical, industry standard-based training has long been one of FITT’s main missions,” says FITT President and CEO Caroline Tompkins. “EDC is a natural ally in building professional success in international markets. Teaming up with EDC to launch EDC-FITT International Trade Training is a wonderful opportunity to bring this world-leading training to more professionals.”

Online learning offers flexibility, allowing you to take the courses and workshops in any order and at any time that is convenient for you. The available course subjects accommodate all aspects of international business, teaching valuable, practical skills that can be used right away to advance careers and business success.

The EDC-FITT International Trade Training digital platform provides a new, easy-to-navigate place to take advantage of the complete FITTskills program. It will serve as a central hub for the latest training and resources for all global business professionals who want to be high performers and take their careers to new heights.

The post World-leading EDC-FITT International Trade Training launches today! appeared first on Trade Ready.

(OTTAWA) – October 3, 2017

Export Development Canada (EDC) and the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT) today announced a formalized partnership to deliver enhanced trade education to Canadian companies and trade professionals.

At the core of the partnership is the creation of the EDC-FITT International Trade Learning Centre (Centre) – a digital platform from which EDC and FITT will offer information, learning modules, and other knowledge-based resources focused on helping small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) go, grow and succeed internationally. The Centre is expected to be fully operational in early 2018.

“By partnering with FITT to educate more Canadians about international trade, we’re strengthening Canada’s trade ecosystem and helping to build this country’s next generation of trade leaders,” said Mairead Lavery, Senior Vice-President, Business Development, EDC.

“We hear from exporters all the time that knowledge is one of the most important tools for building international success, so this initiative is really about EDC adding value to the knowledge resources that FITT has already built, and making these more broadly accessible and relevant to the needs of Canadian companies engaged in trade.”

Since 1992, FITT has educated Canadians on trade and continuously improved the delivery and quality of their services. For more than 70 years, EDC has served as Canada’s export credit agency and accumulated considerable experience and expertise in the world of trade finance. The expanded partnership with FITT creates a new channel for EDC to share its real-time, practical experience of trading internationally with Canadian companies and the trade professionals who support them.

“The EDC-FITT Centre will expand the available sources of credible and relevant international trade knowledge to ensure businesses have the information needed to maximize opportunities in international trade,” said Caroline Tompkins, President and CEO of FITT. “This partnership with EDC is about boosting Canada’s proficiency in trade to a new level.”

The official announcement of the partnership was made at FITT’s international business conference, Your Future in Global Markets, which marked FITT’s 25-year anniversary.

To learn more about FITT or to sign up for trade training, please visit FITT’s website.

About FITT

FITT is Canada’s National Standards, Certification and Training Body for international trade practitioners. A world-recognized not-for-profit leader in building international business competence, FITT sets the standards and designs the training programs for the Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) designation. Centered on international trade best practices and delivered by a broad network of educational partners, and online, FITT’s quality training programs impart knowledge and practical skills that trade practitioners can apply immediately – providing a competitive advantage and elevating their position in global markets.

About EDC

EDC helps Canadian companies go, grow, and succeed in their international business. As a financial Crown corporation, EDC provides financing, insurance, bonding, trade knowledge, and matchmaking connections to help Canadian companies sell and invest abroad. EDC can also provide financial solutions to foreign buyers to facilitate and grow purchases from Canadian companies.

For more information about how we can help your company, call us at
1-888-434-8508 or visit www.edc.ca.

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E-commerce is radically shifting how customers are interacting with businesses. No longer does a potential customer have to travel to a brick-and-mortar store to look through a limited selection. They can now go online and shop across a multitude of stores in a matter of seconds. As customers turn to the Internet to do their everyday shopping, businesses must shift their attention to the digital space. The FITTskills Global Value Chain training course outlines the rise of e-commerce and how it can benefit your business.

E-commerce involves conducting business operations using the Internet. Online business encompasses a wide range of functions and is completely reliant on I.T.

Up-front costs for web-based business operations are usually low and data can be exchanged between global organizations rapidly and cost effectively. An organization can track exactly what is happening in any part of the supply chain at any time. This knowledge can be used to anticipate problems, identify bottlenecks, and keep meeting consumer demand. E-commerce can deliver products directly from the manufacturer to end customer, and has led to the fast rise of online retailers, such as Walmart, Costco, and Home Depot, to provide their customers with online options. Inventory issues directly impact customers and can quickly impact an organization’s brand and reputation.

Advantages of e-commerce

The advantages of e-commerce include:

• Market access and competition: Buyers and sellers have access to goods, services and supply chains all over the world.

Global access to new markets means more product choices for consumers who can quickly research options and determine the most suitable choice. For sellers, it means more choice for non-core competency providers including suppliers, distribution and even third-party payment processing services.

• Improved communication: Buyers are able to communicate quickly with sellers and in many cases are able to track the status of their purchases online. Supply chains have constant inter-communication to mitigate production risks effectively.

• Real time access to data: Technologies enabling real time inventory and production statuses, and websites offering current marketing material, reduce time to market production and allow more immediate customer marketing feedback.

• Cost: For suppliers, online business and electronic communication reduces, and in some cases, removes the need for physical space for inventory and extra staff.

It can also cut some production and distribution costs if goods and/or services can be accessed online or downloaded by consumers.

E-commerce can also reduce marketing costs by sending targeted emails to customers as opposed to other marketing options. Finally, increased competition and not having to travel to purchase goods reduces costs for buyers.

An excellent example of a business taking full advantage of e-commerce opportunities is Sotheby’s. Sotheby’s is a large and growing online auction site that realized the merit of increasing its auction inventory to attract a bigger audience on the Internet. It revised its Internet strategy by opening its website, www.sothebys.com, to smaller dealers and auction sites, instead of competing directly with its competitors in the online auction business. With this approach, Sotheby experienced exponential growth in its inventory, which attracted a bigger market. Sotheby’s not only provides dedicated websites for its members, but it also handles all billing and collection, which has attracted thousands of participating collectible businesses with inventory to sell.

At the same time, Sotheby’s has remained focused on its high-end clients. It now offers an iPad application for international realty to attract consumers interested in purchasing multi-million dollar properties. The app was designed specifically for those who want to see more than just static photos and written descriptions when researching homes online. According to John Passerini, vice president of interactive marketing at Sotheby’s International Realty, the app allows buyers to understand the “context” of the properties they’re viewing, and where those properties are located in relation to nearby amenities like golf courses, vineyards, theaters and restaurants.

Barcoding and RFID Tags

With e-commerce becoming more prevalent and one of the unique selling points being able to track a purchase at every stage, having a way to easily identify products is essential for e-commerce. Bar codes are machine-readable representations of information that enable companies to label goods and track their movement through the supply chain. Barcoding facilitates monitoring of the supply chain in the manufacturing process, in warehouses, during shipping, and at point of sale. As products are sold, purchase orders for replacements can be transmitted automatically.

This immediate response reduces the risk and cost of carrying excess inventory.

In many cases, the supplier will produce more product in response to an order, and the supplier’s supply time will be shorter. Also, barcoding and other representations of information save administrative time, as they allow for easier processing of materials.

While still prevalent, barcoding systems are now being replaced by radio-frequency identification (RFID).

Radio frequency identification, or RFID, refers to technologies that use radio waves to automatically identify people or objects. The most common method is to store a serial number that identifies a person or object on a microchip that is attached to an antenna (the chip and the antenna together are called an RFID transponder or an RFID tag). The antenna enables the chip to transmit the identification information to a reader. The reader converts the radio waves reflected back from the RFID tag into digital information that can then be passed on to computers to make use of the information.

There are two types of RFID: active tags and passive tags. Active RFID tags have an internal power source and emit radio frequencies that can be detected by RFID readers or sensors up to hundreds of metres away. Passive RFID tags do not contain an internal power source. When they encounter radio waves from the RFID reader, the coiled antenna in the tag generates a magnetic field from which it can derive energy to transmit the RFID information.

Sensors for RFID tags can be located in warehouses, manufacturing sites, vehicles, and stores. Some systems permit precise tracking of shipments and estimated time of arrival using global positioning systems (GPS).

For foreign suppliers and buyers, the ability to track inventory throughout the global value chain anywhere on the globe provides more certainty.

Inventory tracking systems can feed into inventory management software and EDI systems to keep organizations informed to facilitate scheduling, planning and forecasting.

The use of barcodes and RFID tags allows the customer to actively track every step of the supply chain, from initial purchase all the way to delivery. This level of control creates a strong sense of customer satisfaction, which boosts the chances for returning customers.

How is your company embracing e-commerce? Let us know in the comments down below. 

The post Get on board with e-commerce – your competition is already there! appeared first on Trade Ready.

The alibi is broken, however, when Elaine and George can’t even provide Susan with the basic details of his job, such as what he imports.

This example conveys a simple idea: international trade jobs are important, but most people still struggle to describe or define them.

This makes it difficult for professionals to understand what knowledge and abilities they need to gain to get a job in the industry, and a challenge for businesses in terms of hiring and training for skills gaps within their current team-structures.

The challenge is therefore to define and standardize international trade skills, responsibilities and jobs based on a common level of industry competency.

By ensuring that trade professionals, educators, employers and others are all on the same page, everyone involved in international trade can work together to ensure a competent and competitive global trade workforce.

A global first in international trade standards

FITT’s International Competency Standards (ICS) project is proudly taking on this challenge and breaking new ground for the global business industry.

So far, the project has involved international secondary research analysis, online surveys, a series of cross-Canada focus groups, document reviews and one-on-one interviews, all with international trade experts from around the globe.

These expert professionals are all selected for their many years of hands-on practical experience, as well as their ability to contribute meaningful ideas to how their skills and occupations must be defined.

Because of these steps and the methodology behind them, the project is enabling international trade professionals to self-define their competencies, their sector, and eventually how others will perceive their work.

While occupational standards projects done in other sectors have used similar methodologies, the size of the international trade sector and the extraordinary passion and willingness to participate seen in international trade professionals all across North America differentiate the ICS project.

International trade represents more than sixty percent of Canada’s GDP, and one in five Canadian jobs are dependent on exports.

“One of the things I’ve learned from this project is the breadth of the industry,” says Calum Macdonald, Product Innovation Manager at Emerit, a consultancy firm hired by FITT to help complete the project.

There are so many roles, and it includes so many people and occupations.

Phil Mondor, Senior Vice President at Emerit, similarly expressed that even many of the global trade participants, all experts in their industries, had underestimated the size of the sector.

While its size offers some unique challenges, Phil was excited about the opportunity to “break new ground for a sector that hasn’t been standardized before,” and create competencies that will be “the first of their type anywhere in the world” in global trade.

A sense of appreciation and pride for global trade careers

Since the ICS project is designed to enable international trade professionals to define the competencies and occupations in their own sector, FITT and Emerit were counting on those involved in international trade to offer their opinions, experiences and ideas to help shape the field in which they work.

However, those involved in managing the project have been especially impressed by the passion and participation shown thus far.

“In all aspects of the project, participants have enjoyed discussing and debating various competency topics, despite their busyness,” says Calum.

Jay Gulati, President of Raysim Ventures Inc., says that participating in the Vancouver focus group was a wonderful two-way experience.

“I contributed to the group what I have learnt through my experiences, and learned from my fellow group members as well.”

Susan Vaughan, CITP®|FIBP® agrees. “It’s important for me as a CITP to have the opportunity, not only to play a role in establishing competency standards, but also to engage with like-minded and qualified individuals who share the same passion for trade and, in particular, helping others succeed in their international trade efforts,” she says.

“I was looking forward to sharing my thoughts, connecting with new people, and learning from them – I wasn’t disappointed.  I found the session to be very useful and engaging, and I feel that we had a very productive two days.”

Defining international trade professions is no longer a job for television writers and characters, but for international trade experts themselves.

Do you think you can contribute to this effort? Join your peers in this ground breaking project.

The post Global trade experts bring their passion for international business to define competency standards appeared first on Trade Ready.

Julie Nowe, CITP®|FIBP®, CGA, is the Finance and Business Development Manager for Big 8 Beverages, a subsidiary of Sobeys.

She has risen through the organization over the past several years by combining her financial expertise with the international trade skills she gained by taking FITT courses.

Julie has big future plans to develop relationships for the company in new foreign markets.

Julie started the ascent to her current role with Sobeys Atlantic Finance in 2005. After three years in her role there, she was able to use her experience to transfer to Big 8 Beverages—producer of Sobeys Atlantic’s private-label spring water and soft drinks—and earn the position of Finance Manager.

In 2013, however, Big 8 Beverages started producing its own 500ml bottles, which reduced its costs significantly.

With the nearby Halifax port offering an excellent method to distribute its products internationally, and the new competitive pricing, the company saw an opportunity  to make inroads internationally.

While looking into what she could do to help the company learn to export globally, Julie came across FITT’s International Trade Research course and decided to take it. After completing the course and finding it both helpful and beneficial to her work, she decided to take the rest of the courses as well.

Julie was able to apply what she learned along the way and use those skills to export to several countries, including China, Barbados and Aruba.

Her new skills and international trade expertise have also helped her to earn her current title, which reflects her professional growth and expanding responsibilities.

“Becoming export ready has been a journey, as it takes time to understand the target market, logistics, financial, legal and overall knowledge of international trade,” she says.

The FITT courses have given me the skills and confidence to take Big 8 Beverages to the international market.

Julie is continuing to eye global expansion opportunities, and is hoping to develop the company’s relationships further in China and the Caribbean, as well as make inroads in the Middle East.

For Julie, earning her CITP®|FIBP® is an important next step in her career and a source of pride.

Applying for the CITP was a natural progression after completing the courses and getting the international experience.  Having both the CGA and CITP designations is a tremendous professional and personal accomplishment as I am a single mom of two daughters.

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Dr. Gabriel Huston, CITP®|FIBP®, serves as a Professor at Toronto’s Seneca College School of International Business. He also represents the Batak indigenous people of North Sumatra, Indonesia as their Global Ambassador-in-Chief.

Gabriel earned his doctorate in international business from the University of Madrid, and then entered a senior management career with the trade and development arm of the Swiss Banking Corporation.

Throughout his education and career, Gabriel has greatly valued his experiences as well as the mentorship he has received.  As a result, he has endeavoured to pay it forward by mentoring others.

His assistance to the Batak independent coffee growers of Sumatra, his role as senior advisor to DeHaen Danum International, and his other advisory roles are motivated by this desire, as well as a continuing sense of social responsibility.

“All life lives layer upon layer. It’s about having empathy and truly listening. We are all interconnected, and in this truth must be socially responsible, morally accountable and superbly trained in our global trade initiatives,” he said.

The CITP®|FIBP® ­­designation calls to this higher standard.

Gabriel has also assisted and advised stakeholders in emerging economies on commercial transportation infrastructure strengthening, technology innovation and improving commodities supply chains.

Gabriel highlighted the importance of applying 360-degree risk analysis to all aspects of trade, citing examples of deals that went sideways because of miscommunication, poor planning and a lack of attention to detail.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of maintaining meticulous documentary-evidence and having a contingency plan in place in advance of shipping.

On top of his many international commitments, Gabriel is a proud teacher and author. He was recently awarded Honoris Causa in the Humanities by Ontario’s former Lieutenant Governor, David C. Onley, for his authorship of Canada’s first socioeconomic report on our ethnic media.

For Gabriel, it is important that we listen to diverse community voices in the media, as these are the voices that shape economics and trade.

Gabriel’s efforts in mentoring students and helping people across the world are united by his belief in the importance of listening to and understanding others, acting in a socially responsible manner and equipping others with the tools they need to excel in international trade.

“I teach FITT-accredited subjects to prepare students, working professionals, and their companies and institutions all over the world to have diverse professional skills in international trade,” he says. “I want them to successfully and sustainably engage in the ethical conduct of international business across all cultures.”

Gabriel says that FITT-accredited training and the CITP®|FIBP® designation are very important for his students and their futures because the standards that the courses and designation represent are a benchmark for the professional global business community.

Why did Gabriel seek the CITP®|FIBP® professional designation?

“I have to practice what I teach, and I am delighted to be in such good company,” he says.

I look forward to the international professional dialogue, business opportunity gateways, opportunities for lifelong learning, and the investment in future generations of trade professionals that the CITP®|FIBP® designation and FITT ambassadorship has to offer.

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