We are launching a series of interviews with the teams of the Export Consultants Mastery program which we implement in Ukraine. All teams work under great pressure, strict deadlines, and challenging tasks with real Ukrainian companies assigned for each module, and in parallel have their job and life. We will try to discover how they handle pressure, achieve results and enjoy learning. We will start our talk with Bohdan Shapoval, a member of the team from Rivne, the team which has shown excellent results and won several times in a tough competition for the title of the best team of the module.
-Hi, Bohdan. To kick off our brief interview, we want first to congratulate you on the Rivne team’s remarkable success in this program. It’s truly a great achievement, and we understand the hard work that went into it. And maybe, let’s start with the next question. What do you believe is the key secret behind your team’s accomplishments?
– Hi, and thank you for the invitation and warm congratulations. Being part of the Export Consultants Mastery program has truly been an impressive experience. Now, let’s address your question. It’s a bit tricky because all the teams in our program work diligently, and we’re all winners in our own right. However, when it comes to distinguishing characteristics, our secret to success is refreshingly simple: discipline and the unwavering ability to meet deadlines. Equally important is our capacity to support one another. After all, teamwork and encouragement play a vital role in achieving our goals.
– Could you briefly introduce your team? What were your team members’ backgrounds before this project, and did you know each other before the program?
– Our Rivne team comprises six individuals, and what’s truly remarkable is the team’s multidisciplinary nature. We have a mix of existing export specialists, some who are venturing into the world of exports for the first time, and others who previously worked in consulting services. This diversity brings a wealth of perspectives and expertise to our collaboration. Interestingly, we didn’t know each other before joining the program, which makes our journey even more exciting.
– What have been the most significant challenges you’ve encountered during the project? And specifically, what has been the toughest part for you?
– The most substantial challenge for me has been balancing my primary job with my studies. The program modules are quite intensive, and there are moments when I struggle to allocate enough time to both. The pressure of time constraints can be overwhelming at times.
– Thank you for sharing that. Now, on a more positive note, what aspect of the learning process do you enjoy the most?
– Workshops are my favorite part. They offer a unique opportunity to delve into topics that pique my curiosity. Watching videos often sparks questions that burn with keen interest, and workshops provide a platform to find answers and engage in meaningful discussions.
– How would you evaluate the two-component training format that combines export and consulting skills?
– The integration of export and consulting skills in this two-component training format is truly commendable. It offers valuable insights and growth opportunities for individuals across various backgrounds. Even seasoned consultants or lifelong educators can benefit significantly, particularly when it comes to product presentation and sales. The program bridges the gap between theory and practical application, equipping participants with a holistic skill set that is essential in today’s dynamic business landscape.
– It is so great to hear this. But let`s come back to your teamwork. How have you organised the work of your team? Do you have a division of roles?
– Yes, our team decided to vote for the distribution of roles. In each module, we swapped roles, and this exchange gave each of us a greater opportunity to immerse ourselves in the specifics of the activity, and regular contact with the team guaranteed efficiency.
– As part of this program, you’ve delved deep into each module by providing real export consulting to Ukrainian companies free of charge. Could you share a brief overview of the companies you’ve worked with? What makes them unique, and why do you believe they are prepared to enter export markets?
– With all the companies we worked with, we see potential because Rivne is a huge export-oriented region, in particular, the furniture industry and the light industry. All our clients deserve to be mentioned separately, but maybe now I will highlight the GERA Sport company. Their results in export even before the consultations are truly impressive. GERA Sport outfits nine national teams in six sports and has developed partnerships in Poland, Moldova, and the Netherlands. They are actively expanding their exports through both their own companies and representatives. During one month we were working on the task of entering the UK market with uniforms for rugby, a sport that may not be popular among Ukrainians, but GERA Sport understands the specific needs of rugby athletes. We developed a brand idea and brand archetype for the client and created several examples of brand and product slogans. One of the proposed slogans was: “Fast means fast. Rugby sportswear from one piece. Gera”. We believe that GERA has all chances to enter the UK market with their uniforms. Their dedication and expertise make them a standout player in the export game.
But coming back to all our clients – we continue to communicate, advise and help them resolve certain situations that they face in terms of exports. So, our cooperation is not limited to the timeframe of the project and that is something really valuable to all parties of this project.
– It’s truly remarkable that Ukraine boasts such diverse products for export, and initiatives like Export Consultants Mastery allow us to discover and promote them. Thank you for sharing this valuable information. Now, for our final question today: What have you discovered so far as a result of participating in the program?
– The most significant discovery for me during this program has been the dynamic and talented team of professionals. Each member brings unique expertise and perspectives to the table. Witnessing their dedication and commitment has been truly inspiring. Moreover, the opportunity to acquire new skill sets alongside such a motivated group is incredibly rewarding. It reinforces the idea that continuous learning and collaboration are essential for personal and professional growth.
– Bohdan, thanks a lot for this inspiring interview. Good luck to your RIVNE team and the companies you are consulting.
The Export Consultants’ Mastery programme has been developed by Visionest Institute (Estonia) in cooperation with the Entrepreneurship and Export Promotion Office (Ukraine) as part of the national project Diia.Business. The project is implemented with the financial support of the Office of the Coordinator of U.S. Assistance Programmes in Europe and Eurasia of the U.S. Department of State under the 10th round of the Development Cooperation Partnership Programme and Estonian Centre for International Development (ESTDEV).