How to Find the Right Vendors When Networking
By NETWORK. LEAD. EXCHANGE.
Getting the right vendors is difficult for any business. Network Lead Exchange explains how networking is possibly the most effective way to find the right vendors and thrive with them.
Every business deals with vendors in one way or another. The key is having vendor relationships that are complementary to the business. Managing these relationships is imperative; the key to finding the right vendors comes from having trusted advisors. Networking makes finding these vendors much easier than the trial and error basis used by most small business entrepreneurs. Here’s how to use networking to find the right vendors.
Network with People in the Same Industry and Location
The best vendors have lots of connections within an industry and a territory. For a small business owner just starting out, a network is a valuable vendor resource. Talking to people in a network is where valuable information about vendor reliability and service is most forthrightly discussed. Network members are not shy about expressing delight or disappointment with a vendor. Listen to what they say before entering into a contract.
Validate Reviews
Many entrepreneurs just look at vendor reviews before making a decision. A networking group is a great place to determine how accurate those reviews are. Often, businesses with satisfied customers like to get as many positive reviews in as possible. This is a wise practice, but it could unintentionally cover up the story. Talk to the people at the meetings and see if the reviews are accurate or if there’s more to the story than initially suggested.
Learn About Vendor Points of Contact
There are some vendors who have great points of contact, and other vendors have points of contact who are lacking. When visiting a networking event, discuss the different points of contact. There may be a better point of contact for a certain vendor, or there could be a bad vendor with an exceptional point of contact. Learning how to deal with points of contact is valuable information to be found in a networking group.
Vendors are critical parts of all types of business. Find out everything you need to know about local and national vendors when joining one of the groups @ NETWORKLEADEXCHANGE.COM.
