8 TIPS IN GETTING IT RIGHT

When you take on the role of the customer, it’s sometimes easy to forget just how important the relationship is between your company and its vendors and suppliers. Like any relationship, communication is the key to success. Talking to vendors in the right way can change the quality of that relationship, so keep the following in mind.

1. BEING INFORMED

Take the lead on setting the tone for the relationship. Always remember that you are talking to a person and each interaction will affect future conversations. Filter out jargon, be polite and be honest.

2. TALK STRAIGHT TO THEM

Information is the key to negotiating discounts, discussing concerns or knowing what questions to ask. When talking to a vendor, you need to know where your company stands and as much information as possible about the product or service your vendor has.

3. ASK QUESTIONS

When you have a question they weren’t ready for, you want to hear ‘I don’t know, but I’ll find out.’ To do your job well, you need accurate information, so don’t pressure your vendors to make something up on the spot.

4. GIVE YOUR VENDOR TIME TO ANSWER

At the same time, acknowledge the expertise of your vendors. If you’re informed about what you need, you can ask for information on how their company can fill that need. it’s always best to ask all your questions before signing any contracts, you don’t want to stumble on any problems in the future that can make or break your wedding night.

5. BRING UP THE MONEY SUBJECT

It’s hard to please someone when you don’t know what they want. Help your vendors serve you better by making your expectations known.

6. SET CLEAR EXPECTATIONS

Be open with your vendors about when you pay bills, how you pay bills and why an invoice is overdue if it is. One of the most touchy subjects can be money, so make sure to broach the subject early.

7. ADDRESS ISSUES

Depending on the size of your vendor’s business, they may not have been informed that something went wrong. If you are not satisfied with how an order was handled or the quality of product in a particular shipment, a good vendor wants to know about it.

8. GIVE RECOGNITIONS

When talking to vendors, tell them when their product or services led to a success and be specific about what they do well. This kind of affirmation will help them know how to continue to best serve you.