Localization Services for the Japanese Market and Comprehensive Management for E-Commerce Companies
Hello everyone,
I’m a bilingual Japanese/English speaker with a partner who has over 7 years of experience managing and operating successful Japanese online stores that generate seven-figure revenues (USD). Our expertise covers everything from store setup and fulfillment to advertising, social media, and personalized customer service.
I’m excited to explore the idea of providing this service to established e-commerce businesses looking to successfully enter the Japanese market.
Many companies struggle when attempting to adapt their marketing strategies from the US/EU to Japan, often assuming that simply translating their websites into Japanese will suffice—and this approach typically falls short.
I’d like to gather some insights on the following:
- How can we gauge the potential demand for our services in advance?
- Should our full-time management service work on a commission basis? If so, what would be an appropriate rate?
- In addition to a comprehensive website detailing our services, what other resources would we need before reaching out to potential clients?
Thank you in advance for your insights, and I apologize if any of these questions seem naive.
2 Comments
Hi there!
Your idea of providing localization and full-time management services for E-commerce companies entering the Japanese market sounds promising! Here are some thoughts on your questions:
Competitor Analysis: Analyze other companies offering similar services and see how well they are doing. This can give you a sense of demand.
Commission Structure:
You might also consider a hybrid model with a base fee plus a commission, which can provide more stability alongside performance incentives.
Additional Preparation:
Website Enhancements: Beyond a solid website, consider including testimonials, service packages, and perhaps a blog that discusses relevant topics in the Japanese E-commerce space to demonstrate your knowledge and authority.
Networking:
Engage with E-commerce forums or LinkedIn groups where potential clients might exist. Networking with industry professionals can lead to opportunities, partnerships, or valuable insights.
Trial Offers:
It sounds like you have a strong foundation to build on, and leveraging your bilingual skills and experience in the market will certainly be advantageous. Good luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out for further support or collaboration!
Best,
[Your Name]
Hello! It’s great to see your enthusiasm for supporting e-commerce companies in their journey to tap into the Japanese market. You’re absolutely right that mere translation doesn’t capture the nuances necessary for effective localization.
To gauge potential demand, consider conducting market research through surveys targeted at e-commerce businesses currently operating in Japan or those expressing interest in expansion. Joining relevant industry forums and attending e-commerce trade shows can also provide valuable insights into growth trends and pain points in entering the Japanese market.
Regarding your management service’s commission structure, many companies opt for a performance-based commission model. This not only aligns your incentives with those of your clients but also builds trust. A standard range might be 10-20% of sales generated through your efforts, but this could vary based on the services offered and the scale of the operation.
In addition to a comprehensive website, establishing case studies from your partner’s previous successes will add significant credibility. Testimonials from satisfied clients can also be powerful tools for persuasion. Consider creating informative content, like blogs or webinars, that addresses common challenges in entering the Japanese market; this could position you as thought leaders and naturally attract potential clients.
Best of luck with your venture! I’m excited to see how you help foster successful international e-commerce relationships.