The Vendor Check-In: Are Your Vendors Helping You Thrive?

Are Your Vendors Helping or Hurting Your Business? Are They Adding Value?

Think about the last time a vendor saved the day—or ruined it. Maybe your supplier delivered ahead of schedule, preventing a major headache. Or perhaps a service provider missed a deadline, causing delays and frustration.

From suppliers and service providers to marketing agencies, accountants, and banks, vendors play a crucial role in keeping your business running smoothly. They’re not just external partners—they’re an extension of your team, bringing expertise, resources, and solutions that help your business grow.

A great vendor is a true partner—reliable, proactive, and invested in your success. An average vendor does the job but adds little extra value. A bad vendor? They create stress, inefficiencies, and problems that hold you back. It’s well worth your time to evaluate your vendor relationships and ensure they’re working for you—not against you.

Are Your Vendors Making Your Work Easier or Harder?

How do you assess whether your vendors are truly adding value? Start by asking:

• Do they consistently meet deadlines and quality standards?
• Are they responsive and easy to work with?
• Do they proactively offer solutions or just the bare minimum?
• Do they create unnecessary work or stress for you or your team?

It is important to gather feedback from your team about their interactions with your vendors. The right ones make their jobs easier.  The wrong ones drain their time and energy.

If a vendor isn’t meeting expectations, it is time to have a conversation, renegotiate terms, or find a better partner. Your business deserves vendors who actively contribute to your success—anything less is a liability.

The Long-Term Value of Strong Vendor Relationships

The benefits of strong, long-term relationships with your vendors can extend way beyond reliable service. Loyalty and consistency can also lead to better pricing and preferential treatment—your vendors are more likely to go the extra mile for a trusted partner. Plus, as they gain a deeper understanding of your business they can offer tailored solutions, anticipate your needs, and contribute to strategic growth.

A great vendor isn’t just a service provider; they are a strategic ally, contributing to your ongoing success and resilience in a competitive market. 

Make Time for a Vendor Check-In

Carve out some time to assess your vendor relationships. Are they helping or hurting your business? Talk to your team, gather feedback, and identify opportunities for improvement. 

If a vendor is truly a partner, then invest time in strengthening that relationship. But if a vendor is holding you back, it is time to explore better options. Your business deserves the best support—make sure your vendors are delivering it. Future you will thank you!