Six Signs Your Business Vendor Is Really A Business Partner

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Some business owners believe that their relationship with a vendor ends after an invoice is paid. Other business owners recognize the value of integral vendors and partner with them for mutual benefit. But how can you tell when a vendor will make a good partner? Here are six signs.

1. Interested in your success. 
If your vendor indicates a genuine interest in the condition of your business or industry, it’s clear that he or she recognizes the importance of your ongoing success beyond the value of a pending contract or project.


2. Saves you money.
Vendors who work with their customers to make business more affordable understand the challenges businesses face. Savvy vendors may offer discounts for early payment of invoices, quantity discounts, or may suggest other options for less expensive materials or services.


3. Shares competitive intelligence.
Loyal vendors engaged in serving your industry can be excellent sources of confirmed competitive intelligence.

4. Advocates for you. 
Chances are good that you work directly with a vendor’s salesperson, an account manager or a representative. Good reps will go to the mat for you when it comes to a pressing deadline, a quality issue, pricing, or other concerns.


5. Brokers relationships with others. 
Good vendors recognize and suggest when your business would benefit from an introduction to another vendor, an industry colleague or a possible strategic partner.


6. Continually earns you business. 
A vendor who deserves your business continually earns it. He or she remains in touch, understands your schedule and your concerns, and responds to your inquiries.


In short, vendors who want to partner with you make clear that they are engaged in business with you for the long haul, not for short-term gains.