By Catherine Lang-Cline
In staffing, our client calls us because they need a person, the right person. We could send someone that just fits the skillset, but instead, we do more. We dig deeper and make sure that they are a fit on all levels. This means that we are not sending a ton of resumes; it means that we are asking our client to trust us. We want them to trust that we have vetted a huge group of people and have only sent them the best to choose from. We create a relationship with our client.
One of the best things a vendor can do for you is to work as your partner. It needs to feel like they are your right-hand person in solving their problem. It goes far beyond selling.
Do you feel that you have a trusting relationship with your vendor? It really can be quite easy. Check this list and see if your vendor does this:
Builds trust
Understands your business, inside and out
Knows the players involved on your team
Understands your financial concerns
Communicates, communicates, and communicates
Admits mistakes
Problem solves
Listens
Understands your culture
Is pleasant to work with
Bonus if they remember your birthday! Basically, your vendor needs to do more then manage your inventory; they need to manage the relationship. They need to be the go-to person that can solve your problems, not add to them.
And how about you as the customer? The best thing that you can do is #5. We want to hear the good, bad, and the ugly. Your feedback is important to us. Also, if we are doing a good job, tell others. We would love to know that we are doing such a great job you can recommend us to others. If you can’t recommend us, we want to know that, too.
Here’s hoping for a nice, long-term commitment of service!