KINGSTON, Jamaica—Operators of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are being urged to think beyond limitations and expand their horizons, and adopt strategies for global competitiveness.

The call came from two industry leaders, Michelle Chong, Honey Bun CEO, and Robert Scott, CEO of Lifespan Distributor during the recent Honey Bun Foundation’s CEO Luncheon held at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel.

The CEOs expressed that the market available to SMEs is global and they should think about export and collaboration regardless of their industry.

They were also encouraged to network smartly, and not to attend events merely to collect contacts but to exchange services and build meaningful relationships. Scott noted that bartering is not a concept that is executed enough in this country, when it can be so mutually beneficial.

“Money is just a means of exchange, let’s exchange services,” Scott encouraged, noting that networking is as much about giving as it is receiving.

He noted that for small companies, their approach to business should be embracing the mindset and strategies employed by large companies and those who are successful. He also encouraged the SMEs to embrace integrity above all, especially in a small country like Jamaica, where reputation matters. “Don’t let people not be sure about you,” Scott encouraged.

“ Never think small. Think big and talk about big business,” Chong emphasised.

The CEO emphasised that in thinking big, as they expand, they should have a franchise mindset. He explained that a franchise is a manual of SOPs, and this route takes them from business owners to quality control managers.