I’ve been working with a vendor for years, and have a favorite contact person there. He suddenly left the company and is starting his own business, and I’m going to follow him, for sure. The level of customer service he provides is unbeatable and he’s just a great person to work with. But I wonder: how many people would stick with the original company instead? Some would think it’s a gamble to follow the contact while they create their own business, preferring to stick with the original company that has a long track record. But isn’t that track record really based on the work of the individual contacts there? I’m sticking with my guy - I know he’ll take good care of me. But what would you do? What have you done?
Comments:
2 Comments posted on "Theme of the week: What happens when a vendor contact leaves?"
Elizabeth on April 29th, 2008 at 9:02 am #
This is a very good point and sometimes a dilemma. I recently read in Suze Orman’s book, “WOMEN AND MONEY” how she did the same. She left her initial publisher to work with the editor who started her own publishing company. I come to think that it really depends on the business relationship you have cultivated between yourselves. However, before making the move, I personally would think this through with great care. I own and run Mercury Organizing Professionals & Design Studio. As a new and growing small company who provides organizing services, I hope our customer service and individual care would reflect on the company and the team behind the scenes to make it all happen so effortlessly. While the situation may be different than yours, It makes me set a goal for the future of my company. I will strive as a company to put together all the elements and support for our individual employee to be the best possible organizer for our clients. It would be because of what we offer as a whole that creates an excellent experience for everyone. Elizabeth L. Miranda
rickey gold on April 29th, 2008 at 10:10 pm #
I tend to do the same thing Jenni does. If my contact/rep relationship is a good one, I follow that person to wherever (s)he goes. On the other hand, in those situations where I work with a number of different contacts (rep, production people, pre-press, etc), I generally stick with the original company….unless the contact that moved gives me a good reason to go with him. Post a comment
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