Referrals from partners, when allowed by the institution, are another way to build and maintain strong vendor relationships. In the realm of medical laboratories, chances are that vendors and customers in a region will already know one another in the laboratorian network. Networks of lab employees and lab vendors are already in place and remain so even when individuals move to a different locale or job title. Remember, many times, the vendor sales or technical representative is also a medical laboratory scientist.
Introductions to other people you know or they know (key contacts) - referrals from partners - are common, and indeed often expected. This applies to the laboratory, as well as to the partner vendor (supplier). It is worthwhile to speak with current internal or external users of the supplier. This applies to equipment/reagents/supplies, contractors (e.g., IT), contracted referral laboratories, or another potential product.
Great work may be rewarded in this way; however, having a poor reputation can be quite damaging. This is why it is important to maintain strong vendor relationships using the tips already mentioned. Nurturing these relationships using wisdom and following institutional policies is a must.
