Like any relationship, communication is the key to success. Building strong relationships with Suppliers can help your business grow, and is a great way to network personally.
Here are our 7 top tips for communicating with your suppliers with some templates you can use to get started!
- Introduce Yourself
Once you’re connected, it's good practice to send a quick introduction message within the Kaddy platform. Let your new Supplier know what you're looking for and a bit of background into the needs of your business.
“Hey there, I just connected with you on Kaddy, I run a cocktail bar/bottle shop/restaurant/cafe and I'm looking to learn more about your products. Can you give me a call/email/face to face so I can further understand your offering?”
- Set Expectations
Help your Suppliers serve you better by making your expectations known. Do you have a preference for communication? Email, message, face to face? Only do your ordering on Fridays? Make this clear from day one so Suppliers know how best to communicate and trade with you.
“Hey there, we love to stay up to date with your special releases and offers, please add me to any mailing lists and don't hesitate to get in touch as I want to be the first to know!”
- Be clear, concise and friendly
Suppliers appreciate straight talk that is polite and honest. Always bear in mind that you are talking to a person and each interaction can affect future conversations.
“Hey there, thank you for dropping in and telling your story. At the moment we just don’t have enough space for your products. Please reach out in a month or two to see how we are travelling.”
- Ask questions
If you need clarification or further information don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you see a product that you’re unsure about ordering, ask your Supplier for some more information and they can point you in the right direction. Taking action like this ensures you’re getting the best possible products for your customers in the most efficient way.
“Hey there, I noticed that you only have kegs/can/bottles, do you have other products I can purchase that aren’t visible on Kaddy?”
- Address Issues
It is important to be proactive when issues occur so they can be addressed as quickly as possible. Depending on the size of the Supplier, they may not have been informed something went wrong. If an order wasn’t handled correctly or the order you turned in is still waiting for approval a good supplier wants to know about it, so don’t wait and get the ball rolling!
"Hey there, we had an item missing from our order #100002235. Can you please arrange a redelivery?"
- Return calls and messages
Easier said than done right? It’s easy to get sidetracked and get lost in the day to day of running a business but getting back to Suppliers is just as important as getting back to your customers. If you respond to your Suppliers in a timely manner, they will be more likely to show you the same courtesy back. Use the handy messaging function within the platform to communicate quickly and easily.
- Give recognition
A little recognition goes a long way. If you’re happy with the products and service you received from your Supplier take the time to let them know. Send them a message and let them know it was a success and be specific about what you liked. This kind of feedback helps the Supplier to continue to serve you best and creates a stronger relationship.
"Hey there, thank you for dropping off some samples, they were delicious! Can you please turn in an order for me on Kaddy? Please don’t hesitate to come see me at anytime. :)"