06/14/2021

To Go Global, Channel Your Inner Diplomat

Associations are poised to pursue more global efforts following the pandemic

Associations are increasingly poised to pursue more global efforts following the pandemic, now that many of them have found a wider audience. But, as I wrote last month, a recent study by Factum Global showed that those efforts can easily stall. Though more global customers and potential members might have arrived at your doorstep through virtual events, it will take more than an online conference to bring them more fully into the fold.

During a webinar last week, three international association experts discussed some of the keys to that increased engagement. The event, “Adding Value by Leading With a Global Mindset,” discussed a variety of skill sets leaders will need to improve international engagement. Generally speaking, those break down into three categories. The first, intellectual capital, refers to your association’s knowledge about new markets. The second, psychological capital, addresses your willingness to take on risk.

The third, social capital, can be the trickiest, but also perhaps the most heartening for those treading carefully when it comes to going global. Sirin Köprücü, principal of the consulting firm StrategicStraits and one of the speakers, pointed out that much of what global associations do is built on relationship-building and empathy, something they (hopefully) already practice domestically. “All leaders need to be mindful when exerting their leverage, focus more on needs than wants, gain a deep understanding of cultures and local needs also with regards to national security matters, and negotiate with shared awareness, positive intent, and problem solving,” she said.

Please select this link to read the complete article from Associations Now.