When I first started at Kaser, I was ordering a box of powder coating every two weeks.
Now, I’m averaging ten boxes of powder coating a day.
There are a number of vendors I’ve stuck with through all of this growth – reliable, high-quality suppliers who’ve earned my loyalty (and my rapidly increasing business) by following the three simple rules of selling to a Millennial.
Don’t Drop By.
Previous generations may have needed eye contact and handshakes from their suppliers. Mine does not. While a scheduled meeting could be in order from time to time, I never appreciate a surprise visit, and will go out of my way to avoid buying from suppliers who stop by unannounced.
Check Your Email.
While I do not need to be wooed, courted, called, pursued, or visited, I will occasionally have questions for you. Out of courtesy for both of our time, I will likely reach out via email; if it’s an emergency, I will call. Vendors who give succinct and timely responses earn my business for life.
Problem Solve.
I love to think outside of the box, and I hate to be told “no.” While I understand that some problems are insurmountable (see: global supply chain issues), I will always seek out vendors who are willing to entertain unusual possibilities with me. Hear me out, and I’ll do the same for you. Together, we’ll find creative ways to serve the end customer.
If this is your first time selling to Millennials, my advice is to work smarter, not harder. Take all the energy you’d normally devote to meetings and site visits, and spend it on getting your email response time down to less than 24 hours.
Your younger clients will thank you,
