Someone may tell you you should never engage a sourcing agency since they are known for their lack of devotion and professionalism. They are most likely referring to a few isolated incidents or simply trying to divert your attention to something else they supports. You can dispute by demonstrating how to locate a truly excellent one. Just like finding a good product takes time, finding a competent sourcing agent requires effort and wisdom. The following are the six most important attributes to look for in a sourcing agent.
Trustworthiness
When choosing a sourcing agent, a buyer should keep in mind that trustworthiness is the most crucial factor to consider. You should never operate with a dishonest sourcing agency. Else, you will never know that your sourcing agent is ripping you off by discreetly requesting the supplier for a hidden fee. On the other hand, a professional sourcing agency makes it a golden rule that no information about the supplier, including the number of employees.
Quality-focused
Instead
of stopping too soon before identifying the most acceptable options, a great
sourcing agent should devote all of their efforts to searching for and speaking
with alternative providers. It should also be done on business type, year of
establishment, manufacturing capacity, engineering capabilities, and technical
standards.
Accountability
from the pre-sale to the post-sale service
The
mission of a sourcing agent does not end with the transfer. It should be in
charge of following up on the goods' manufacture and shipment. It should also
coordinate with suppliers to provide technical help for troubleshooting and
assisting in arranging returns. Also, it should execute refunds by the terms
and agreements between the two parties.
Work as a
buyer's coworker
Being
a buyer's colleague is a straightforward guideline that the sourcing consultant
should follow. They are only a bilingual coworker of the buyer working in the
procurement/buying office, but he is expected to properly represent the buyer's
interests in business operations. During a business negotiation or technical
discussion, the sourcing agent must discover any information that the suppliers
seek to keep hidden from the buyer and disclose it to his client in a timely
and appropriate manner.
Be a
supplier's best colleague
Business
culture is heavily linked to relationships and ties in several nations. Some
businesspeople are more likely to offer more favorable terms to those with a
tighter relationship or a more personal connection. Closer business links
increase the chances that the supplier will take better care of manufacturing,
delivery, and service. For example, if the buyer deems it necessary, the sourcing
agent can pass the gifts on to the
supplier to strengthen the two parties' commercial relationship.
