FOCUS ON MANAGING EXPECTATIONS, STRONG COMMUNICATION
From my experience, many times relationships from suppliers and vendors are tested when there are not
clear expectations set. Ambiguity often results from lack of communication.
In the logistics
industry we rely on multiple vendors, from steamship lines, airlines, and overseas agents; domestically,
it is Third Party Logistics providers, trucking companies (FTL/LTL), draymen, container freight stations,
staffing agencies, and many others. After researching potential partners, I prefer documenting
expectations through RFQs with a clear scope of service including volumes, quality, and service levels to
avoid ambiguity.
After you have selected partners, a key is to keep up multiple levels of communication with them.
Stay in touch to communicate changes in business parameters, as well as challenges your providers are
dealing with. Whatever industry you are in, it is always beneficial to document your expectations and
metrics and have quarterly/annual quality business reviews to keep both parties on the same path to
success. A quality partnership leads to success and growth for both parties.