CSU Professional Development Center

Increase Sales Through Exports 

By: Ucee Faenza 

More than 95 percent of the world’s population and two-thirds of the global purchasing power lies outside America’s borders, yet less than 1 percent of the 30 million businesses in the U.S. export. Small and medium-sized companies account for almost 97 percent of U.S. exporters, but still represent only about 30 percent of the total export value of U.S. goods.

Exporting enables companies to diversify their portfolios and to weather changes in the domestic economy. Moreover, for every $1 billion the U.S. exports, 6,250 jobs are created or supported in the manufacturing sector. Ohio companies have multiple layers of taxpayer funded resources to facilitate international trade. These resources come in the form of a variety of government agencies from the local to federal level. This article will give you the bigger picture of all the tools at your disposal. After reading it, we encourage you to get started by calling your closest representative to set up an appointment, or by requesting a consultation on-line.

For a detailed list of centers, go to: http://www.entrepreneurohio.org

Ohio’s exporting and current state of how we are doing: Ohio is the ninth-largest exporting state in the U.S., consistently ranking as one of the top 10 exporting states in the nation. Ohio merchandise exports were valued at $50.5 billion in 2013, with machinery, vehicles, aircraft, electrical machinery, plastics, and optics as the top export categories. Ohio exported more than $50.5 billion worth of goods to 210 countries and territories in 2013. More than 415,000 jobs in Ohio depend on exports. Ohio was the 9th largest exporting state in 2013 in terms of sales volume.  

The largest export markets include: 1. Canada $19.9 billion 2. Mexico $5 billion 3. China $3.4 billion 4. France $2 billion 5. United Kingdom $1.6 billion

6. Japan $1.5 billion 7. Brazil $1.5billion 8. Germany $1.4 billion 9. Korea $1 billion 10. Saudi Arabia 885 million What we mostly exported:

• Machinery $9.3 billion • Vehicles & Parts $9.0 billion • Aircraft & Parts $4.7 billion • Electrical machinery $3.2 billion • Plastics $2.7 billion • Optic/medical instruments $2.0 billion • Iron/Steel Products $1.5 billion

Government Resources for U.S. Exporting Companies at Regional Level

• International Trade Assistance Centers State Level • Ohio Development Services Agency (DSA) • Office of Export Assistance Federal Level • U.S. Department of Commerce (all commercial products and services minus f&b) • U.S. Commercial Service (via local offices) • U.S. Department of Agriculture (food and beverages) • Food Export Association of the Midwest (regional office in Chicago) • U.S. Small Business Administration • U.S. Import-Export Bank All agencies often work together and interdependently. Regional and State level offer services to all value-adding Ohio companies that export. Federal level offers more comprehensive overseas and customs support, but can be more restrictive on which businesses can be served (e.g., U.S. companies that manufacture abroad). All agencies offer free and fee based services. International Trade Assistance Centers:   Seven Regional Centers:

• Toledo Chamber of Commerce • Cleveland State University • Youngstown State University • Cleveland State at the Akron Global Business Accelerator • Columbus State Community College • Wright State University • Ohio State University, South Centers in Piketon 

International Trade Assistance Centers (ITACs) are often the first stop for Small to Medium sized enterprises (SMEs) that are new to export or new to markets.

ITAC’s counsel and can facilitate the needs of SMEs in the following ways:

By: Ucee Faenza 

More than 95 percent of the world’s population and two-thirds of the global purchasing power lies outside America’s borders, yet less than 1 percent of the 30 million businesses in the U.S. export. Small and medium-sized companies account for almost 97 percent of U.S. exporters, but still represent only about 30 percent of the total export value of U.S. goods.

Exporting enables companies to diversify their portfolios and to weather changes in the domestic economy. Moreover, for every $1 billion the U.S. exports, 6,250 jobs are created or supported in the manufacturing sector. Ohio companies have multiple layers of taxpayer funded resources to facilitate international trade. These resources come in the form of a variety of government agencies from the local to federal level. This article will give you the bigger picture of all the tools at your disposal. After reading it, we encourage you to get started by calling your closest representative to set up an appointment, or by requesting a consultation on-line.

For a detailed list of centers, go to: http://www.entrepreneurohio.org

Ohio’s exporting and current state of how we are doing: Ohio is the ninth-largest exporting state in the U.S., consistently ranking as one of the top 10 exporting states in the nation. Ohio merchandise exports were valued at $50.5 billion in 2013, with machinery, vehicles, aircraft, electrical machinery, plastics, and optics as the top export categories. Ohio exported more than $50.5 billion worth of goods to 210 countries and territories in 2013. More than 415,000 jobs in Ohio depend on exports. Ohio was the 9th largest exporting state in 2013 in terms of sales volume.  

The largest export markets include: 1. Canada $19.9 billion 2. Mexico $5 billion 3. China $3.4 billion 4. France $2 billion 5. United Kingdom $1.6 billion

6. Japan $1.5 billion 7. Brazil $1.5billion 8. Germany $1.4 billion 9. Korea $1 billion 10. Saudi Arabia 885 million What we mostly exported:

• Machinery $9.3 billion • Vehicles & Parts $9.0 billion • Aircraft & Parts $4.7 billion • Electrical machinery $3.2 billion • Plastics $2.7 billion • Optic/medical instruments $2.0 billion • Iron/Steel Products $1.5 billion

Government Resources for U.S. Exporting Companies at Regional Level

• International Trade Assistance Centers State Level • Ohio Development Services Agency (DSA) • Office of Export Assistance Federal Level • U.S. Department of Commerce (all commercial products and services minus f&b) • U.S. Commercial Service (via local offices) • U.S. Department of Agriculture (food and beverages) • Food Export Association of the Midwest (regional office in Chicago) • U.S. Small Business Administration • U.S. Import-Export Bank All agencies often work together and interdependently. Regional and State level offer services to all value-adding Ohio companies that export. Federal level offers more comprehensive overseas and customs support, but can be more restrictive on which businesses can be served (e.g., U.S. companies that manufacture abroad). All agencies offer free and fee based services. International Trade Assistance Centers:   Seven Regional Centers:

• Toledo Chamber of Commerce • Cleveland State University • Youngstown State University • Cleveland State at the Akron Global Business Accelerator • Columbus State Community College • Wright State University • Ohio State University, South Centers in Piketon 

International Trade Assistance Centers (ITACs) are often the first stop for Small to Medium sized enterprises (SMEs) that are new to export or new to markets.

ITAC’s counsel and can facilitate the needs of SMEs in the following ways:

Written by: Katie Van Dyke

During my time working with entrepreneurs, I have had many ask me if I would buy their product. A product they had put a lot of thought into designing. A majority of entrepreneurs start seeking feedback about their product or service after they have spent countless hours…and cash… developing and designing a prototype.  Are they doing this backwards? Yes.

Even before investing in a prototype, an entrepreneur should use market research and statistical data to understand who might be their potential customer. It could be one segment of customers, or several.

Once an entrepreneur has discovered their potential customers, the next move is to get out of the office to start seeking information. They should spend time at an outdoor shopping area or a busy place surrounded by people who might have interest in, have a similar product, or use a similar service already. The entrepreneur should take notes and explain that they are developing a new product but want to get feedback from them. Most people won’t mind speaking to someone for a short period of time.

Here are some important questions for an entrepreneur to ask:

Is there a need for my      product/service? Does a similar item already exist? If not, what are      people doing as an alternative to my product now?

What do people want to see me      develop? Is it close to the design I already had drawn out or completely      different? Is it similar to what I designed and just need to make a few      adjustments?

Am I not getting interest out of      people when approaching them about my product? Why? Once again, ask is      there a need or is it just important to me? Are people searching out      alternatives already, waiting for a new version or design? Or, do I need      to completely pivot with the findings of their feedback?

What is your position?   

I am a Graduate Assistant for the Professional Development Center.  I work mainly on creating new marketing strategies, broadening social media reach, and helping our brand and services thrive in an extremely competitive market. 

Why were you interested in the position?

I’m currently pursuing my MBA in Marketing and was looking for a job where I could utilize both my education and past work experiences.  My first priority was to find a position that I would actually enjoy.  I felt absolutely burnt out from years of working in areas where there was little need for creativity and passion.  When I first learned of this opportunity, I was excited to see that being innovative and having fun at work were not only a possibility, but a necessity! 

I get to interview students, instructors, professors, and business professionals, who all bring their own unique perspectives on education and career advancement to the table.  I never go a day without learning something new and it’s extremely rewarding to know that I’m part of a place that motivates others to learn, take on new goals, and thrive in their own careers.  It’s great to work with educators who are so enthusiastic about what they teach and seeing the happiness and sense of accomplishment on students’ faces when they receive their certificates.  I love being able to write blog posts and share these stories of advancement throughout our social media pages, knowing that they will reach others who are looking to take that next step in their lives! 

What would you suggest to others who are not sure what services they can use at The Professional Development Center? 

I had a professor last semester who made every student stand up in front of the class on the first day and talk about a skill that they felt they needed to work on.  It was interesting to realize that everyone - from those of us just starting our careers to others who held very high positions at prominent companies – had at least one thing they wanted to improve upon. 

I now realize that, especially in the business world, it’s great to have these types of goals and that learning and working on these concepts is what leads to future growth.  Therefore, I would suggest to both college students and top executives alike to think about their futures and what they may need to work on to get where they want to be. 

I would refer anyone looking to start or advance their career to the Professional Development Center due to the wide array of classes we offer.  Take a look at our website and our social media pages to see what interests you.  And of course let me know if you have any questions at [email protected]  

  Fun facts: 

I love Bob Dylan! 

I just studied abroad in London and can't wait to go back! 

Employee Spotlight: Lizzy Rudge 

What is your position? 

I am the Video Production Coordinator for the Undergraduate Business Advising Center at the Monte Ahuja College of Business as well as the Video Editing Intern for the Professional Development Center at Cleveland State.

  Why were you interested in the position?

As a Marketing major, I saw it necessary to be good at more than just being able to sell a product. Employers want someone who can contribute more than just one skill for a certain job. I was interested in this position because it would help me gain more marketable skills i.e. skills that make me more appealing to a future employer. I am now able to use and edit videos on Adobe Premiere Pro CS6, conduct interviews and film different events. This position also gives me the opportunity to connect with other business professionals and create relationships that will be so crucial for my future as a business professional.

  What would you suggest to other students who are considering applying for internships or getting involved across campus? 

Being involved and applying for internships are two of the best ways to jump start the beginning of your career. Employers love to see people who are able to go to school and participate in outside events. As for internships, DO IT! It is a great way to learn more about what you want your future job to look like and it gives you highly valuable experience. Both applying for internships and getting involved in activities across campus help you to connect and network with other people, including peers and future employers. I couldn't recommend these two things more! 

Fun Facts:   

I am a certified ESL teacher (English as a Second Language teacher)

I am a DJ for the Cleveland State Radio station

My dream job is to work at NASA

Anne Marie, another recipient of the Certificate of Accelerated Leadership created a beautiful final presentation in Prezi, where she proudly shows what she learned from the class, including such important topics as self-awareness, finding good mentors, as well as how to have a more positive attitude and be more open-minded. 

Former instructor Eric Miles, SPHR, discusses the SHRM Learning System at Cleveland State University and the importance of this certification to the HR industry. 

Miles explains how the HR community is evolving and that earning this certification will set one apart from other human resource professionals. 

Hiten was one of yesterday’s recipients of The Monte Ahuja Certificate of Accelerated Leadership!   

"Being from a science background, my strengths and capabilities were limited in terms of management and leadership.  This course provided a lot of self awareness, identification of my strengths, and knowledge of different leadership styles.  I would strongly recommend this course for beginners and managers who are just starting their careers." 

Employee Spotlight: Ucee Faenza

Program Coordinator, Professional Development Center & International Trade Assistance Center

What is your position?

I am the Program Coordinator for both the Professional Development Center and International Trade Assistance Center.

Why were you interested in the position?

I was so happy when I first saw the posting for the position because it encompasses two different departments in the College of Business, which means my job will not be boring. I have been here for a month and I am so happy.

In order for me to fully elaborate on why I love my new position, I have to explain what the Centers for Outreach and Engagement offer.

The Centers for Outreach and Engagement consist of six different Centers:

·         Professional Development Center  

This Center offers non-credit courses in Business, IT, Certification prep such as CPA, CIA, CMA, and SHRM as well as custom courses.   

·         International Trade Assistance Center

This Center assists small-mid size companies and/or individuals entering international trade, specifically exporting.  In addition, we offer export programs, some which have been recipients of presidential awards.

Quick fact: Did you know that the state of Ohio exported goods and services worth 50.5 billion last year?  We were the 9th best performing state in exports in the nation!

·         Center for Sustainable Business Practice

This Center provides services to the community on sustainable business through programs such as the Corporate Roundtable as well as through connecting companies with students to do research on sustainable business practices.

·         Small Business Development Center

This Center offers free consulting, research, and individual counseling for those who would like to start their own business. Also, free programming is provided on the basics of starting a business.

·         Centers for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

This Center is devoted to offering those who are trying to grow their business or interested in starting a business make sound business decisions and connect them to reliable sources that can assist.

I am primarily responsible for coordinating seminars and classes as well as marketing, networking and promoting. I really get to use my creativity and apply all that I learned in the MBA program.

What would you suggest to others who are not sure what services they can use at your Centers?

I get excited when I get the chance to talk about our Centers.

As a student, you can take development classes ranging from leadership skills to Excel Introduction at the Professional Development Center, or get customized training onsite at your company or at CSU. 

ITAC can be accessed if you and your company want to enter exporting. The Small Business Development Center is accessible to anyone who is thinking or trying to start a business. Both centers offer programming as well as confidential, one on one consulting, free of charge.

The Center for Sustainable Business Practices involves stakeholders from all different sectors such as government, business and the general public who strive toward having a sustainable business and seek out guidance through networks such as our Corporate Roundtable or through student research.

But, you really have to visit our website and social media channels to learn more details about us! If there are more questions, call me and I will help you.

Fun Facts about Ucee:

My favorite author:  Malcolm Gladwell

On my free time I like to: Travel with family.

My favorite movie: Big Fish

Contact Ucee:

Phone: 216.687.4797

Email: [email protected]