Finding a good supplier needs to be given time and energy. Simply using the first one that comes along can cost you a lot of money or even bring down your business if you’re not careful.
Firstly you need to be very clear on what you want your supplier to do. Do you want them to provide you with products or a service? How much can you afford to pay? Can they supply in the time frame you need it? And so on.
Next you need to see at least three different suppliers that provide what you are looking for. If you are looking for specialised work or rare products this might not be possible – but for most things there should be more than one supplier you can talk to.
If possible, it’s also a good idea to visit your supplier at their premises so you can see how big or small the organisation really is and not how their website or sales representative implies.
And finally, having a good working relationship with your suppliers is very important, as problems will be sorted quicker, and to everyone’s satisfaction, if you get on with the people you are dealing with.
You’ll probably find that different suppliers offer slightly different solutions to your needs and you’ll have to decide which fits your requirements.
Consultants
If you’re looking for a product or service you know little about it can be useful to hire a consultant to help you – though they can be expensive. Plus, to find the right consultant you’ll have to see at least three to make sure you’re confident in their abilities. Hopefully, though, your consultant will save you money in the long run by helping you find the right supplier.
We found a consultant invaluable in finding a supplier when we were upgrading our student database. No one in our office was really knowledgeable about computers and the consultant helped us to map out what we needed and assess which company gave us the best solution to our needs.
Buying Products
Finding a supplier of products should be quite straight forward. It will come down to: can they supply the products you want, quality of product, price of product, discounts, delivery fees and terms of payment.
Buying Services
Again, depending on the service this should be straight forward. Make sure you know exactly what you want from the service you are buying and then find a supplier who can provide it at the price you want to pay.
Finding Suppliers
Here are some ideas to help you find suppliers:
1. a search on the Internet – a good place to start but don’t just leave it there
2. trade shows – these are good as you get the opportunity to meet the supplier face to face
3. trade organisations will be able to recommend suppliers
4. directories such as Yellow pages
5. ask around for recommendations from friends and your network group.
Finding a supplier is also fun. You’ll be meeting people and visiting their premises which can be fascinating. It can also broaden your outlook and knowledge on how different organisations are run.
