Thinking Globally, Acting Globally

International Business on the Rise for U.S. Companies, Survey Shows
Barriers to world markets have been steadily eroding for many companies in recent years. In a nationwide survey of senior executives, three out of five (61%) respondents said their companies are doing more international business today than five years ago.

The survey was developed by Robert Half Management Resources, and includes interviews with 150 senior executives—including those from human resources, finance and marketing departments—with the nation's 1,000 largest companies.

Senior executives were asked, "Is your company doing more business internationally, through international office expansion or a global customer base, than it was five years ago?" Their responses:

Yes	61%
No	39%

"As more companies experience an increase in international business, an exceptionally prepared workforce is necessary to compete on a global basis," said Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half Management Resources. "Firms today need a common understanding of cultures, languages and ethical standards to better serve customers across different countries and time zones."

McDonald also noted that financial regulations and reporting standards may have an impact on recruiting efforts. "Accounting and finance departments within firms that operate globally will require professionals skilled in both generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and international financial reporting standards (IFRS)."

Source: Robert Half International