And if you think about it, the human need to exchange or barter for goods and services has always been essential to our survival. It has allowed us to grow, expand, diversify, and join forces with other like-minded humans and nations—and in this basic notion, we can find the kernel of what keeps trade unified today.

We still need to cooperate and exchange goods and services with other countries and people, because it not only helps us survive, but ultimately to flourish.

Though the job market is increasingly difficult to navigate, knowing the basic reasons for why we always have and always will exchange goods and services can provide direction and relief.

Yes, trade today is not the methodical industry it once was. It moves at the speed of digital platforms, automated customs systems, AI-driven forecasting tools, and geopolitical realignments that can disrupt an entire region overnight.

Yes, the skills that people need to have to keep up with these transformations are manifold. Yes, there are multiple economic, political, and environmental disruptions in the mix. But, people and countries still need to trade, and this will never stop. 

So, if you’re looking for a job in the global trade market right now, there are some great ways to get started in the field, first and foremost by getting the right training.

And from there developing on-the-job experience through internships, mentorships, or junior roles. Let’s not forget the increasing power of networking in today’s tempestuous hiring waters too. 

Starting from scratch in the field of international trade? Read our tips below and begin carving your path to a profession that’s always evolving yet as enduring as civilization itself.  

Know your learning options

There are many learning options for business in general. These range from highly specialized courses on individual topics like Incoterms or customs compliance, to broader selections, like general business administration, or project management through degrees like an MBA or certifications like the PMP.  

For newcomers who want a broad understanding of global trade in addition to a practical roadmap for how to start, grow, and manage a business across borders, the FITTskills program and the CITP®|FIBP® designation provide one of the more structured and widely recognized pathways available, a sentiment that Daiana Leandro, Customer Success Specialist, Ocean Sonics Ltd. agrees with.  

Just as lawyers and doctors have recognized professional standards, Daiana ventures that the CITP® designation gives international trade professionals a recognized benchmark of expertise, ethics, and commitment. 

“I think that having a professional designation is important to back you up. To show that you’re committed to what you’re doing,” says Daiana.

For professionals like Julia (Xia) Zhao, CITP – President, Raintree International Trade Co. learning about international trade through validated courses also adds confidence to your arsenal.  

“Don’t just work hard. Educate yourself and work harder,” she recommends, adding that completing the FITTskills program gave her a better understanding of the rationale behind decisions and their execution, and provided a significant boost to her ability to collaborate with her colleagues in different roles within the industry. 

The FITTskills Program: What it covers

Rather than offering theory alone, the FITTskills program breaks global business down into a practical and straightforward set of steps, strategies, and skills that all international business professionals must know and execute in real life.  

While some business programs emphasize high-level theory, FITTskills focuses on the practical side of doing business internationally. For product and service exporters – including technology companies – this includes topics like exporting digital products and services, navigating international compliance and procurement requirements, managing global partnerships, understanding market-entry considerations, and working across different regulatory and cultural environments.

For those who advise businesses in international trade it helps them understand the challenges and needs of their clients to be able to meaningfully support them. It’s designed to help professionals apply international business concepts directly to real-world operations, sales, and global growth.

The program’s six courses mirror the lifecycle of an international business venture, from assessing feasibility all the way to executing sales across borders.  

Learning online: flexibility for a world that never stops moving

Many who enter the field today do so while balancing full-time jobs, family responsibilities, or immigration transitions. For these learners, the ability to train online—on their own time—can be the difference between entering the field and never getting started. 

Sajal Takhi, CITP, provides an illustrative example of this. 

Despite balancing a demanding career in logistics and pursuing a Master’s in Finance, Sajal was able to complete two FITTskills courses. It was such an enriching learning experience that he decided to complete the entire FITTskills program. He went on to apply for his Certified International Trade Professional (CITP®|FIBP®) designation, understanding its ability to open international doors and add credibility to his CV. 

“These courses significantly deepened my knowledge, allowing me to apply advanced analytical skills directly to my work in logistics. This enhanced my ability to make data-driven decisions, mitigate risks, and optimize costs, ultimately contributing to the growth of the company and adding value to the broader community.”

In-class instruction: where conversation becomes understanding

For others, learning becomes more powerful when it happens in a room full of different perspectives and background and includes the face-to-face interactions, discussions, and hands-on projects that come with in-class learning. 

Teniola Animat Oke, winner of the International Business Plan Award at the 2024 FITT Educational Awards notes the value for her in going through the process to complete her project. 

“Completing this project was incredibly rewarding,” Teniola said. “It pushed me to integrate everything I learned – market analysis, financial planning, risk management, and cultural adaptation – into an actionable plan. It reinforced my passion for international business and my confidence in tackling complex, multifaceted challenges.”

Extended learning: where skills turn into opportunity

CITPs often emphasize mentorship as a turning point in their careers. 

Audrey Marie-Nely – Associate Vice-President, Banking, RBCx, saw the benefit of mentorship firsthand, through a mentorship program facilitated by FITT: 

“Before moving to Canada, I didn’t realize the power of mentorship. Through a FITT mentorship program, I was matched with an experienced trade professional who provided invaluable guidance. Even though the formal program has ended, we still keep in touch.”

She adds, “Mentorship is a way to give back and help others navigate the complexities of global trade. It’s something I plan to continue throughout my career.”

Networking: A powerful tool for growth and connection

Networking as a practice has undergone a wide-ranging transformation in the past few years. COVID-19 saw the rise on online networking events, but post-pandemic, in-person events gained back momentum as people realized they missed the subtle yet irreplicable business nuances of connecting with other people in person, face to face. 

Whether in-person or online, networking still remains fundamental to career growth, especially in the international trade field. These connections are critical to finding strategic partners and contacts across borders, and for job hunters, they’re also essential for meeting potential employers in the field.  

Julien Rosan, CITP and Trade Commissioner, Global Affairs Canada, agrees wholeheartedly. At the beginning of his career, Julien relied on his knowledge and interpersonal skills to find a job. But after many years in the field, he now sees how crucial it is to network, seek referrals, and build professional relationships. Nowadays, when he receives LinkedIn requests from students seeking advice or internship connections, he makes it a point to remain as approachable and helpful as ever.  

“I love this proactive approach and always keep my door open as I can see myself in them 10 years ago.”

Internships: more than a foot in the door

Even a short internship can ignite a new career. Steve Jobs, Oprah Winfrey, Ursula Burns and Steve Spielberg all performed internships, with many of these experiences launching the legends into their lifelong careers. 

Ian Murdoch, CITP, experienced the benefits of internships firsthand, when he travelled to Kenya for a six-month internship through a program at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs at Carleton University. 

Through his experience, he assisted a coffee farm with sustainable business development and international trade. This opportunity sparked his interest in the field as it offered him a chance to work with people from around the world and contribute to an important cause like sustainable growth and development. The experience also accelerated his passion for international trade, a profession that he still pursues as a Trade Commissioner at Global Affairs Canada. 

Learning on the job: letting the job teach you

Those who stay in the field long enough often say the same thing: the work itself becomes the teacher. 

“In the beginning, everything seems overwhelming” says Ramon Pinto, CITP, President & CEO, SOLUPAPER LLC whose $60K startup eventually evolved into a multimillion-dollar cross-border company. But with work and patience, success can come: 

“Instead of taking quick, expensive routes, we focused on sustainable expansion, reinvesting our profits and seeking financing only when absolutely necessary. It wasn’t easy, and many times it felt like we wouldn’t make it, but every financial hurdle taught us to be more resilient and manage our resources efficiently. The key was always keeping the long-term vision in mind, knowing that each sacrifice today would bring us closer to success tomorrow.”  

He describes the trade career as a constant exercise in judgment; reading markets, picking partners, understanding risks, sensing change before it arrives. 

“We made decisions based on data analysis and trends, and we weren’t afraid to invest in areas that seemed uncertain. Today, that vision has allowed us to maintain a solid sales trajectory and continue moving forward despite industry shifts.”

He adds that,

“If you never stop learning you increase your opportunity to grow, adapt, and improve.”

Carving a path is a unique experience for each individual, but effort always drives success

Across a myriad of professional trade careers, it’s clear that no one path is identical. Some enter the field through in-class instruction, while others take on mentorships and internships.  

And yet, despite these differing routes, advice rooted in personal effort remains parallel: 

• Start with foundational training to validate expertise and build confidence. 
• Seek out real experiences, even entry-level ones, that expose you to how goods, money, and decisions operate on a day-to-day level. 
• Build relationships and contacts, as these connections open business and career opportunities 
• Find a mentor, and someday, become one to learn from and contribute to a deep community of experts 
• Stay curious, and keep learning to stay ahead of industry transformations 

Much like the evolution of trade itself, progress, even in the face of setbacks, is attainable. You just need to remain patient and keep moving forward. 

The post How to start a career in international trade from scratch – tips, advice, and strategies from professionals appeared first on Trade Ready.

International business-related jobs pay an average of 13-18% more than domestic-focused positions. And with more global trade happening than ever before, there are new opportunities of many kinds. So, how do you get a job or build a career in global trade?

Where do you start? Who can you ask for help? We decided to ask some global business experts to give their advice and take your questions in this month’s live #TradeElite Twitter chat, How to Get or Build a Career in Global Trade. The result? Lots of useful advice and interesting insights. Highlights of the chat are below, and you can scroll through the #TradeElite hashtag to follow the entire chat.

Moderator: Nicole Chevrier, Content Marketing Specialist with FITT (@FITTNews)

The Panelists:
Marcela Mandeville, CITP, Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), based in Alberta (@MsBrightIdea)

Audrey Ross, International Business expert, Orchard Custom Beauty, based in Toronto, ON (@tresAudrey)

Simon Slyper, CITP, International Trade Compliance expert, based in New York, NY (@SimonTradeBuzz)

Emiliano Introcaso, CITP, Export Help Advisor, Export Development Canada, based in Toronto, ON (@introcaso)

Floyd Simpkins, CITP, International Business Professor (@FloydSimpkins)‏

Pernille Fischer Boulter, CITP, President and CEO, Kisserup International Trade Roots (@PFB6)

Q1 What’s your advice for getting a good job in global trade?

A1 #TradeElite a good job should not only be considered based on pay, but also on the contribution you as a professional will be making. Is this job going to allow you better somebody’s life? What is the culture of the company? Researching the org is key! https://t.co/KVV8Ws4IxS

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A1. Get your #CITP designation from @FITTNews !!! #TradeElite

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

it not only helps, but pushes your salary up a bit as well. Plus some for some jobs this is a MUST! #TradeElite #CITP #CITP20 #certification #designation

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

Generally any extra training / certification is a salary boost.
Know more than one language? salary boost.
Really great w tech or know how utilize it & have it created by your tech team? salary boost.
Penny saver & can find efficiencies? salary boost.#TradeElite https://t.co/WM24eqBBGk

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

Good Afternoon! We are so excited to be apart of today’s chat! It is @PFB6 & the @kisserupInt team Our advice is to get out there and network as you never know what connections that could bring. Also, volunteering provides a great opportunity to get involved. #tradeelite

— Kisserup Int. (@kisserupInt) May 9, 2019

Oooh – good ones. Networking was where I met @introcaso and volunteering has led to some great learning experiences (public speaking, networking, podcasts). #TradeElite https://t.co/ZEqenVBVrD

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

A1. Stay on top of new technology. #tradeelite

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

A1 In my experience you “good job” usually starts off on the periphery of where you actually want to go. In other words, be prepared to start off in a less than perfect job and work your way into the job you want, by gaining experience gradually. – Floyd Simpkins‏

Another point about networking  …. join a local Chamber of Commerce. They are always looking for good people to volunteer on committees. Show them your “stuff” and opportunities will arise. – Floyd Simpkins

A1: learning as much as possible in areas where there is demand (e.g. @FITTNews certification), getting your CITP credential, and connecting with global trade professionals working in non-profit organizations and businesses #TradeElite

— Marcela Mandeville (@MsBrightIdea) May 9, 2019

Q2 Where should I look? What are the industries that are growing the most right now?

A2 #TradeElite look at where you think you career might take you. What kind of company would you like to work for? The company’s career section helps you learn of their current openings, the culture of the organizations, their corporate social responsibility (#csr), etc. 1/2 https://t.co/7tPtILkKlw

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A2 2/2 #TradeElite when it comes to other sources to find jobs, a career site such as @LinkedIn for example, is also a great tool to search. You can use keywords you are most interested in when it comes to this industry. Find jobs, in you current city or in other cities.

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A2 #TradeElite here’s a resource directly from @LinkedIn help pages: ? https://t.co/wR9UH8dQX6 #career #jobs #findjobs

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A2: Service exports are a good place to look, especially in industries experiencing significant change and disruption in markets of interest #TradeElite

— Marcela Mandeville (@MsBrightIdea) May 9, 2019

A2. Supply Chain! I often see openings in Customs & Logistics at entry level but would recommend you get expertise in compliance to take it to the next level. #TradeElite

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

A2: Agree with @MsBrightIdea! #TradElite

A “good job” might not present itself right away, so also apply for roles that may offer you a path towards one. You need to build your skills, knowledge and experience and get your hands dirty as soon as possible

— Simon Slyper (@SimonTradeBuzz) May 9, 2019

A2: @PFB6 We totally agree with @SimonTradeBuzz & @MsBrightIdea

Getting a foot in the door is the first step! #TradeElite https://t.co/H8kM8FhA8a

— Kisserup Int. (@kisserupInt) May 9, 2019

A3 #TradeElite Review the job posting… remember that is a “Wishlist” so you have to have some of those skills to be able to apply. If you have more than 65% of the skills, I think it is a safe “possibility” to be considered through the interview process. If… 1/2 https://t.co/eugBm2CUL2

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A3 2/2 #TradeElite if you do not have the skills, then you need to find ways to acquire those. Either through academic credentials (I studied @FITTNews skills at @SenecaPartTime) or via workshops, seminars, etc… check @TorontoRBOT if you are in #Toronto

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A3: Do not get discouraged if you do not have all the skills listed on the job posting. No candidate is 100%. Remember the job posting only lasts for so long, so don’t miss it. In the meantime, take courses such as are offered by @FITTnews to shore up your cred #TradeElite

— Simon Slyper (@SimonTradeBuzz) May 9, 2019

A3: @PFB6 There are many opportunities out there in order to advance your skills. Check out the CITP @FITTNews it is a great resource for international trade, a comprehensive course that covers all angels of International Business #TradeElite

— Kisserup Int. (@kisserupInt) May 9, 2019

If you want to learn but you are short on resources, there are tons of government websites, such as the @TCS_SDC where you can lookup guides and information, and that helps you train your brain too! #TradeElite

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A3: Look at the desired skills and ask a trusted advisor to help you identify where you are strong and need work, then you can find programs to build skills that could be improved. If you feel you could do the job and you would have a chance to work to improve, apply #TradeElite

— Marcela Mandeville (@MsBrightIdea) May 9, 2019

This is a great answer! ?#TradeElite https://t.co/uzznu6TlXU

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

Q4 I want to work overseas – what’s the best way to find jobs abroad?

A4 The United Nations is actively seeking young people for internships. The UN has a career page and you can fill out your credentials and experience on-line. Follow the UN on Twitter and you will also see announcements about jobs. – Floyd Simpkins‏

A4 Again, government offices, banks, consulting firms operating in other countries sometimes hire “locally engaged” staff at their international operations. You have to be in the right place at the right time. It is a form of networking. – Floyd Simpkins‏

A4 #TradeElite well… sometimes when working in #InternationalBusiness you get to travel a lot and work overseas too! Maybe finding a job in a global company might be a good start. However…. 1/2

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A4 2/2 #TradeElite However, there are rules (and sometimes serious tax complications) as to how you can work in another country. As an example, you can take a look at what is required to work in the USA. ? https://t.co/znThKveeNi

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

Your companies HR team is often tasked with re-location but it’s best to do some independent research too as they won’t necessarily be able to guide you on tax implications or support moving family members #TradeElite https://t.co/dIHFKqCfv8

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

This is where you might need to engage with a good accountant well versed in international tax law, to know your tax repercussions (if there are not tax treaty between your home country and the foreign country you are going to work at). When in doubt, seek an expert #TradeElite

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

Agreed @_LeighAnnR the @FITTNews blog is a fantastic resource for postings #TradeElite https://t.co/uisRL2D8wa

— PFB (@PFB6) May 9, 2019

A4: Look at businesses and organizations in your community, province and across Canada with ties to your countries of interest. Local connections can offer great opportunities into global work #TradeElite

— Marcela Mandeville (@MsBrightIdea) May 9, 2019

A4. Find a company with global offices, be up front in interviews that you are willing & wanting to travel and / or live abroad. Learn the language(s) of your ideal destination. #TradeElite

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

Q5 What are your secrets of success?

Be curious! Be interested and dedicated to what you are focusing your time on. Find ways to think outside the box and be creative. #TradeElite

— PFB (@PFB6) May 9, 2019

A5: Not cutting corners, putting in the time to learn, asking questions, putting my best foot forward on a daily basis and not taking anything for granted, paying attention to detail; no room for complacency in compliance. #TradeElite

— Simon Slyper (@SimonTradeBuzz) May 9, 2019

A5 #TradeElite well… work hard, commit to the industry & continuous education + training. But there is no secret formula. Employers tell you what they want for a particular job, so if they ask for a designation, go and get one, if they ask for specific education, go get that!

— Emiliano Introcaso CITP PLog MBA (Cand.) (@introcaso) May 9, 2019

A5: Be open to possibilities, connect with as many people interested in and working in global trade in as many ways possible (e.g. through the @FITTNews community) to learn, share insights, build skills and find pathways to professional goals #TradeElite

— Marcela Mandeville (@MsBrightIdea) May 9, 2019

A5 Yes goals are very important. They bring focus to the effort and allow you to gauge how you are advancing toward what you want to achieve. – Floyd Simpkins

A5. It’s a combination of what you know and your work ethic and also a lot of opportunities are offered because of who you know.
Networking is not this for that, sometimes you need something but make sure you are giving back to the community too. #TradeElite

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

A5. Building relationships, saying yes to things outside my comfort zone, saying yes to things that don’t necessarily seem like the obvious “next step”, having an overarching long term goal of what I want to feel like in my work. #TradeElite

— audrey ross citp|fibp (@tresAudrey) May 9, 2019

The post How to get or build a career in global trade appeared first on Trade Ready.

If you’re a small business aiming to grow, you may be wondering about the best way to approach it. You probably already know that scaling up your business to go global presents unique challenges for smaller businesses.

Entering global markets is a significant undertaking, and like any undertaking, it requires know-how, and developing or securing that know-how will require an investment of time and money.

So, in practical terms, what’s the value to small business of investing in trade know-how?

Who better to ask than our own Certified International Trade Professionals (CITPs) who run their own global businesses?

We wanted to learn more about their own journeys to global trade, so we asked our CITPs how global trade training and the CITP designation helps them to grow their own small businesses.

The Pacific Trade Show – Carolina Vasquez, CITP

Carolina Vasquez is a CITP with over two decades of experience in the industry.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Trade through her university studies in Chile, and completed her FITTskills education as part of a post-graduate program in International Business Management at Mohawk College.

In 2011, Carolina attained her Certified International Trade Professional designation, the CITP|FIBP, a strategic move that would serve her in many ways in her career.

Carolina adds that “the program is so comprehensive, and courses like Feasibility of International Trade and Global Value Chain have been key tools in my career for a better understanding in all aspects of international trade. What I have learned has also been a decisive factor for effectively managing cultural differences and language barriers… it has been a complimentary tool to continue my professional development.”

As a CITP with so much international experience, we wanted to know more about Carolina’s newest business venture, The Pacific Trade Show.

What problem does your business solve, and how?

After several years of working on events in Toronto, promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the Pacific Region, we decided to create a new platform and an international program to connect Canadian companies, organizations and SMEs looking for international business opportunities.

The Pacific Trade Show brings together a new platform for participants to connect through experience sharing and networking, learn from a wide range of speakers, and discover new market trends in products and/or services.

How is your business involved in global trade?

It offers a platform for commercial integration, developing common objectives and sharing best practices in several areas, such as education, training, and international trade facilitation and promotion.

Our team of professionals has the ability to connect with other organizations, companies and professionals in international trade, facilitating business-to-business exchanges through trade promotion events and inbound/outbound missions to/from Canada and other countries of the Pacific Region.

We also offer our services to women-led companies looking for internationalization opportunities. The purpose is to help increase women’s access to economic opportunities and resources to empower their businesses, and their communities.

How has FITT training/ know-how contributed to the success of your business?

It gave me the know-how to understand and put in practice many aspects of global trade and successfully guide SMEs businesses through their international business experience in Canada.

Why was getting the CITP certification an important decision for you/your business?

I have been involved in international trade for over 20 years, and getting the CITP designation gave me recognition of my competency, knowledge and expertise in international trade in Canada.

What is one of your secrets of success?

Take the time to connect with people. By reaching out and engaging with others you can find people willing to share their time, talent and expertise to help others make their business succeed.

What advice would you share with other entrepreneurs as they begin their journey?

Always be open to new opportunities. Take a chance and don’t get  discouraged, because as the saying goes, ‘when one door closes, another door opens’ – there might be others open to listening to your ideas. Be ready to overcome challenges and never give up.

Carolina and her team are already excited for The Pacific Trade Show 2019 on October 31 (learn more about and register for this exciting event here), and the platform to connect is ready. The invitation is open to everyone to join this exciting international business event.

The post CITP Small Business Spotlight – The Pacific Trade Show appeared first on Trade Ready.

So, you’re a recent graduate from an international business program and you are about to embark on the exciting journey of your global trade career. Where do you start? Who can you ask for help? And ultimately, how do you land that dream job?

Being a new grad with little professional experience in an often competitive, sometimes brutal job market can be scary. But fear not: there are some tried and tested ways for you to put your best foot forward and find the job you’ve wanted since your first day of studying.

1. Network like crazy

This has to be number one because many would argue it’s the most important, useful step you can take to land the job opportunities you’re after. In the business world, and particularly the global business world, having a large network of fellow professionals can open doors you couldn’t even imagine. They key is to be prepared, present your best self, and don’t be shy.

As someone new to the business world, professional networking can seem pretty daunting. However, the effort you put into networking can pay off big time in job offers, good advice and mentorship. A survey taken by Connect Us Canada found that 70% of respondents had experienced an increase in job opportunities as a result of networking.

As with most things in life, practice makes perfect. You can alleviate some of the jitters by preparing an elevator speech before attending an event, so that you don’t stumble over introductions. Remember to present relevant details about yourself, project the value of what you do, and be clear about your career goals.

The attitude you present will make a big difference, so make sure you listen attentively and don’t just ask for things, but also look for opportunities to help. You never know who you might meet or how they could play into your professional future.

Look for events in your area and don’t be afraid to get in touch with your local chamber of commerce.

2. Find a mentor

No matter what stage of your career you find yourself in, a mentor can be beneficial. Mentors are the people who are more wise, experienced and knowledgeable in your field and can pass that wisdom on to you to help you progress in your career.

A good mentor will connect you to their professional network, help you gain knowledge and experience, push you to think differently and try new things, and be a test audience for your thoughts and ideas. Perhaps most importantly, they can help you prepare for the realities of the day-to-day challenges you’ll experience on the job in global trade.

There will inevitably be things that even the best, most comprehensive courses and training programs can’t fully prepare you for: the best ways to travel to different regions, intricate cultural details, the daily challenges of running your own business, or what to say to get yourself out of trouble in any number of scenarios. This is where the authentic personal experiences of a mentor who has spent more time working in global business than you can really be of value to you.

So where do you find a mentor? There are a number of places these wonderful people hang out: networking events, LinkedIn groups, Meetup groups, membership directories, mentorship programs, with other people you’re already connected to (word of mouth). Put the word out there and meet your mentor today!

3. Consider your credentials

You’re a graduate, so chances are you are possess a diploma, certificate, or degree of some sort, and that’s a great start. But in today’s increasingly competitive job market, it’s more important than ever to stand out from the crowd. Improving your credibility and confidence through an advanced level of certification or professional designation has been proven to help those new to a profession find work.

Whether it’s a course or two, or a world-recognized professional designation, taking the time to do some research and find something you can add to your resume from the get-go can be just what you need to impress a recruiter and land your dream job.

“I had an interview with the National Bank of Canada for a Manager of International Trade position. My problem was that I didn’t have any banking experience, and banks rarely hire people who don’t. During the interview, however, I drew a lot from the FITTskills courses I took and it made a real impression on the interviewer.”

I got the job, and since I didn’t have that experience, I think that the FITTskills courses made the difference. Abdel Azzouzi, CITP|FIBP 

As a bonus, many training programs are available online as well, offering you the flexibility to complete course work at your own pace, while working full-time or juggling other commitments.

4. Land an Internship

Apply for every relevant internship opportunity you can get your hands on. The benefits of interning at a company in your field are plentiful.

What if I told you, you could:

• Get hands-on job experience in international business?
• Develop in-demand skills?
• Explore your professional interests?
• Get a chance to travel?
• Learn from your more experienced colleagues?
• Make valuable contacts and gain references?
• Start building a professional portfolio?
• And boost your starting salary?

In return, all you would need to do is work your tail off, do some “menial” tasks, take some constructive criticism, think outside the box and offer a fresh perspective, be on time, listen and learn, and constantly strive to go above and beyond.

THE best way to jump start your career in global trade is to take on an internship, hands down.

There are many opportunities out there for the go-getters among you. Here are some options to get started:

• EDC Internship Program
• EDC-FITT Internship 
• International Internships
• United States Trade Representative Internship Program
• Global Affairs Canada International Youth Internship Program

You can also explore FITT’s regularly updated job postings and search for “Internships” to find the latest opportunities.

5. Put yourself out there

For many people new to their field, or to the professional world in general, knowing how to get started is difficult, confusing and intimidating. You know the saying “good things come to those who wait”? Well, it doesn’t really apply to job hunting.

If you’re looking for employment, you need to put yourself out there. You should do this not only in all of the ways mentioned in tips 1-4, but also in some of the less obvious ways that can really help you make an impression in an interview and separate you from the herd.

First things first, never stop learning. Seek articles, forums, courses, books, anything you can find to immerse yourself in the latest issues, news and best practices of global business.

Be on the lookout for learning experiences. If you get the chance to work or travel abroad, take it. Learning about another culture and doing work in another country can give you a serious leg-up in the global business industry.

Share your voice. Get on social media, blogs, write editorials, any platform you prefer where your fellow professionals can see who you are, what you’re passionate about, and why you would be an asset to their business.

And finally, don’t be afraid to fail. Rejection hurts, but it’s a part of adult life. Not getting the first job you interview for is not something that should shake your confidence. Every effort you put out there is a learning experience. So don’t let yourself get discouraged, the right opportunity is out there for you. You’ve got the whole world in front of you.

The post 5 Tips for New Grads Starting a Career in Global Trade appeared first on Trade Ready.

Story told to Pamela Hyatt by Olivier Canolle, PACI|FPAI

I have been a Business Development Manager for 7 years at SBB International, a small-medium company based in Terrebonne, QC with experience in international business and negotiation with both government and private entities.

An international study experience leads to a global career

I had my first taste of international trade during my studies, when I travelled to Mikkeli, Finland to complete my third year of university at an international school.

It was the best school year ever – not necessarily in terms of academic achievement, but in terms of social experience. I spent time with students from all around the world, from Nigeria to Indonesia and even Canada, learning about many different cultures.

It was in getting to know some Canadians that I decided to come and live in Quebec, Canada.

My career in international trade began thanks to my current General Manager, Mr. Patrick Gharzani, MBA. I had already worked with him in the past and he gave me my chance.

Based on my experience and personality, he saw me fitting into the international department, pointing out that I would learn a lot about international trade through experience over time.

He suggested that I take the FITTskills program in English, saying that the courses would teach me all the tricks of international trade.

He also pointed out the value of building my credibility in the industry by having the PACI®|FPAI® designation next to my name on my business cards.

Finding common ground with clients from diverse cultures

Since 1989, SBB has been designing and manufacturing emergency towers for Emergency Restoration Systems (ERS). They are modular towers made of aluminium that can be quickly deployed to restore power on damaged transmission lines.

Since joining the company as Business Development Manager in 2009, I have been building and managing a worldwide network of around 60 agents. It is a big challenge because they all have a different way of working, based on their own unique culture.

It’s really interesting to see the different ways of doing business in each culture, while having the same objective, which is to sell or gain customers’ satisfaction.

I find these agents with the help of the Trade Commissioner Service in Canadian embassies abroad, or through Export Québec. I also use the catalogs of exhibitions in which we participate, often requiring a lot of time and dedication.

Sometimes I go through more than 150 pages and as many websites just to find one agent.

The research can be time consuming but being an SME, agents play an important role for our company. They are our eyes and ears in each local market.

Going the distance to make the sale

If a prospect is interested in knowing more about our products after a first round of meetings with one of our local agents, I’ll travel to meet them to make technical and commercial presentations.

Those meetings can bring together engineers, managers and people from the Ministry of Energy. I will try to maximise travel expenses by visiting 2-3 countries on each trip.

My longest trip was 3 weeks, involved 10 airplanes, and took me to 5 different countries (Nigeria, Gabon, Madagascar, Botswana and Malawi).

During the year, my General Manager and I participate in world famous exhibitions related to our field such as the IEEE in the U.S., CIGRE in Paris, and African Utility Week in Cape Town.

We try to participate in the biggest shows, but also make a point of attending more specific events when we want to test the market response for our products in a new country or find a local agent.

I am also in charge of the administrative part of international tenders, from the registration and financial statements to quality certificates, making sure all documents comply with the tender.

From time to time, I also play the tourist guide when we receive delegations from around the world. I take care of them by promoting our beautiful city, giving them a sightseeing tour of Montreal and bringing them to some of the best restaurants to help them discover some local specialties.

Making inroads to Africa

When I started at SBB in 2009, we had no business contacts within the content of Africa. From a North American perspective, this continent is often ignored on a business level because of nagging preconceptions (no money, dangerous, corruption, etc.).

Canadian companies tend to prefer doing business with the U.S. or Europe because their ways of doing business are similar and familiar. I am originally from France, where there is less apprehension toward doing business in Africa, as France is accustomed to working with Francophone African countries.

So I decided that creating a client base in Africa would be my mission at SBB, and that I would develop the continent from A to Z (Algeria to Zimbabwe).

I set out to find agents in West Africa, and our first contract was signed in 2010 with the Ivory Coast.

Winning this contract created a snowball effect, and we now have 10 clients on the continent in both Anglophone and Francophone countries. I have personally visited 25 countries in Africa, so I feel confident that I can say I am beginning to know the market well.

Training to reach a new level of respect in international business

I greatly thank my General Manager, Patrick Gharzani for advising me to complete the FITTskills program and earn my PACI®|FPAI® designation.

Honestly, I loved being able to do everything online, I find that the program fits very well into the lifestyle and schedule of a professional.

Even on a business trip, I could have easy access to my coursework and my projects, whether on my tablet, my laptop or my cell.

Also, the quality and experience of the teachers was a great asset to understand the different courses. My experience with the FITTskills program went very smoothly; we have quick access to all the resources.

The FITT staff is very professional, they reply quickly and are always ready to help, whether you need to order books or to answer the different questions you may have during the program and certification process.

The courses allowed me to understand international trade as a whole, the big picture, rather than only the sales part. This allowed me to fully understand every step and see how everything is connected together.

Now I have knowledge in all areas related to international trade and I can communicate more easily with colleagues from other departments such as logistics, for example.

I also had access to new resources that I didn’t know about beforehand, and it now makes my search for agents easier.

I feel very proud to have obtained this certification, resumed my studies at the age of 36, and worked hard for 2 years to complete it while continuing to deal with my busy work and travel schedule.

Also, many of my agents have asked me about my PACI®|FPAI® designation next to my name on my business card or email signature, and after explaining, I feel they take me more seriously and have greater respect for me.

The post Olivier Canolle, PACI|FPAI – Business Development Manager appeared first on Trade Ready.