
Today, we’re going to dive into a game-changer. Vendor relationships can save and even grow your business during the slow season. These unsung heroes can be your secret weapon when times get tough, so let’s uncover their magic together!
The Essential Ingredient: Vendor Relationships
For many of us – especially in a service driven industry – there are highs and lows we experience throughout the year. One of the most impactful ways I’ve found to increase business during the slow season has been to capitalize on vendor relationships during the busy season.
Connect, Connect, Connect!
You have likely heard the phrase, “It’s all about who you know,” and this is absolutely true when it comes to your vendor connections within the industry. The caveat to this wisdom, however, is that you also have to perform at a level worth remembering. By boosting your company’s worth to a fellow vendor, they will be more incentivized to build on the relationship you’ve created together.
As you enter this busy season, be sure to utilize your 17hats questionnaires to discover the other vendors you share in common with your client. What other vendors are your clients working with, and to what capacity can you serve them? I respect those who aim to change the world, but admire the ones that first aim to uplift their community. Your community, in this case, begins with your fellow vendors.
Just like yourself, it’s important to remember that no vendor is just a faceless business owner, employee, or even supplier; they are your business allies, and it’s important to make time to connect! Reach out for a coffee, chat at industry events, or simply drop a friendly email. Remember, it’s not about corporate jargon; it’s about human connections. I’m reminded of a book by Bryan Kramer titled, There is No B2B or B2C: It’s Human to Human #H2H. In the book, Kramer seeks to “bring back the human side of communication, in all its imperfection, empathy, and simplicity.” It’s important we keep this mantra top of mind when building relationships during our busy season.
It’s All About the Feels
Maya Angelou is often attributed with the quote – “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” That is the heart of vendor relationships. When you build a positive and supportive connection, you leave a lasting impression. And that’s what sets you apart in the long run.
When you are face to face with a fellow vendor (or anyone for that matter), make sure that you are fully present within that moment. These seemingly insignificant 1:1 times can actually be one of the most important turning points in your career. Every major milestone I have personally experienced in business has come as a result of an “insignificant” 1:1 – even if it was in a group setting – communication is such that you can feel the speaker speaking directly to you. Study great speakers, be present with others, stay genuinely curious, respectful, and honest, and you will be blown away by the impact.
5 Reasons Why Busy Season is the Perfect Time
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Busy season? Who’s got time for vendor chats during busy season?” But that is precisely when you should make the effort. Here’s why:
Strong Bonds = Peace of Mind
When the going is good, and the orders are flowing, it’s easy to focus solely on customers. But remember, vendors play a crucial role in keeping your business running smoothly. A solid bond with them means less stress during the slow season. They’ve got your back!
Face-Time Equals Real Connections
Busy seasons might be hectic, but even a quick chat or a friendly smile goes a long way. These little moments strengthen your vendor relationships, and done well and often, they will be remembered when things slow down.
Lay the Groundwork for Tough Times
Slow seasons can be tough, but when you’ve built genuine connections with your vendors, you’ve got a support system. They’ll be there to lend a hand, offer advice, or simply be a listening ear.
Collaboration Sparks Innovation
During busy times, you and your vendors are in sync, making things happen together. This collaboration can lead to innovative ideas or even new business opportunities that can carry you through the slow season.
It’s Hard
Realistically, it’s hard to live in the future, especially when our culture is obsessed with focusing on now, and that is exactly the point. To quote Jim Berg, “You have to be different to make a difference.” If you want to build an exceptional life and business, sometimes you have to go against the grain. Only the exceptional few are focusing on this during their busy season, and that’s exactly the point.
Wrap-Up: Your Seasonal Superpower
Vendor relationships built this year can help determine how successful your business is next year. Connect, genuinely make them feel valued, and lay the groundwork during the busy season. When the slow season rolls in, you’ll be armed with a network of support to weather the storm.
It’s not about buzz words or corporate strategies. It’s about real connections with real people. So, embrace the power of vendor relationships, and enjoy watching your business thrive, season after season.