Originally Published Mar. 31, 2016
Aspiring business owners are often on a constant quest for the big leagues. Their hope is to start by making small moves that will lead to big movers with even bigger players. What keeps these aspiring business owners going is that this hope of theirs is attainable. There is most certainly a way to get in the game operating small, while supplying big. Corporate America is always looking for new links in their supply chains. There is a place for you.
Though navigating the supply chain can be challenging, and in some cases, costly, if you have the will, you can certainly find the way.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
Think like a buyer
Ask yourself why the buyer would
want or even need what you have to offer. Why should they do business with you? What’s your upside? Know that. Deliver that. Buyers, too, like money; make them some, and, in turn, make you some.Invest in relationships
Sometimes the best way to get your foot in the door is by already knowing who’s behind it. Companies want to know that you know their organization and how you would bring value to it. Not only would they like for you to know them, but they’d like to get to know you, too.
Be honest
Don’t over-promise. We know you’re dreaming big, but let that big dream reflect reality. If you don’t have what it takes to supply what an organization needs, fall back and wait until you do.
Partner
Partnerships can take you a long way in the supplier game. Collaborating with a tier one firm may be the best way to learn the ropes and build necessary relationships.
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