{"id":589,"date":"2013-02-13T10:42:49","date_gmt":"2013-02-13T10:42:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.poly.com\/?p=589"},"modified":"2013-02-13T10:42:49","modified_gmt":"2013-02-13T10:42:49","slug":"how-to-choose-the-best-suppliers-for-your-small-business","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.poly.com\/how-to-choose-the-best-suppliers-for-your-small-business\/","title":{"rendered":"How to choose the best suppliers for your small business"},"content":{"rendered":"

It\u2019s not always easy to find the right supplier whatever stage your small business is in. While price is a major consideration, there other factors to consider. You need dependable suppliers who provide quality products or services, assure on-time delivery and meet your terms and conditions. You also want to do business with companies that have a good reputation and are financially stable.<\/p>\n

While you are making an investment in your suppliers, the same should be expected of them. In an ideal situation, your suppliers should be a resource about the industry and even your competitors, suggest new business opportunities and also help you determine new products or services for your market.<\/p>\n

Research potential suppliers<\/b><\/p>\n

\"business<\/a>You have a number of resources to explore potential suppliers. You can begin with online research, ask business associates (inquire among your LinkedIn<\/a> contacts and groups, for example) or look at trade magazines. Trade shows are a good place to look for suppliers. They provide an opportunity to meet with several candidates in one venue and you can have a one-to-one conversation to determine which ones are really interested in your business.<\/p>\n

Whichever you choose, try to stay local. If you are working with suppliers who are far from you, it may take a long time to get the materials and merchandise you need. You also have freight costs to consider as well as potential shipping problems due to bad weather, accidents or vehicle breakdowns. Consider having an alternative supplier as a backup or working with two.<\/p>\n

Conduct due diligence on supplier candidates<\/strong><\/p>\n

Try to pay a visit to a supplier\u2019s factory or site to get a first-look at the operations. Then conduct a thorough background on a potential supplier\u2019s:<\/p>\n