GREAT 179 IDEA: Demand Great Service from Vendors

David Gumpert, an author, journalist, and consultant shared this idea when we met a few years ago in Washington, DC.

He doesn't niggle on price when he's negotiating with new suppliers or vendors. Instead, he tells people: “I will pay you top dollar, if you promise to always give me excellent service.”

That means they will return his phone calls promptly, deliver his order on time, and resolve problems quickly. He said his strategy works. Vendors appreciate not being beaten up over price and provide excellent service in exchange for being paid fairly and promptly.

It often makes sense to pay more for good service. For example, when you need technical support, you may have the option of waiting on hold for hours, or paying to be helped immediately.

Remember, your time is valuable.