In any business you have limited options when it comes to selecting a supplier. Traditionally you would use the phone book or if possible get a referral from an industry associate.
Most people would agree that having a supplier recommended to you gives you far more piece of mind than playing the classic ‘trial and error’ through traditional mediums.
Generally most people find the phone book a very convenient source of suppliers because it is always available when you need it.
The price of convenience in this case is security.
Trying to qualify a specialist supplier as you work your way through the listings in the phone book is time consuming enough, but when you also have to rely on the word of the supplier alone as to their specialisation, the cost can be far higher.
To have the security of a ‘word-of-mouth’ referral from an existing customer (in your industry) AND the convenience of easy access would appear to be the best solution.
This is doubly important for new managers who have very little experience in the day-to-day operation of their business and would do better to utilise the network of managers in their area for management advice instead of seeking recommendations of specialist suppliers.
Many new managers have indicated that they feel like they are imposing when forced to make a number of calls to other managers (who also have a complex to run).
It is far more efficient for managers to submit their supplier preferences ‘in one hit’, to be accessed by other managers when the need arises without unnecessary interruptions, capitalising on the latest database technologies.
Whatever the product or service, if you need a supplier then please use the Preferred Supplier Directory or call/fax our office for assistance. We are able to provide complete lists of preferred suppliers for managers and other industry professionals.
In the near future the Preferred Supplier Directory will be available online with a complete search and quote management system to assist manager’s in locating and quoting for necessary products and services.
