**London**: In a recent interview, journalist Gustavo Caballero emphasised the critical role of effective communication between companies and suppliers, highlighting soft skills and the impact of digital interactions on these connections to enhance product quality and commercial conditions.
In a recent interview with Canal E, Gustavo Caballero, a journalist with expertise in protocol and ceremonial practices, discussed the critical importance of communication between companies and their suppliers. The dialogue occurred in light of the ever-evolving business landscape where effective relationships play a pivotal role in ensuring the quality of products and services.
Caballero noted that often the interactions between companies and suppliers tend to become “cold and distant,” primarily because these relationships are frequently dominated by numbers and cost assessments. However, he insisted that the essence of effective communication should not be sidelined amidst such factors. “If we ensure a good relationship with the supplier, we will have quality in products and services,” he stated, highlighting how nurturing these ties can yield significant benefits.
A focal point of their conversation was the role of soft skills in fostering better supplier relationships. Caballero underscored empathy as a particularly critical soft skill. He elaborated, “It’s not just about being nice, but about putting ourselves in the other person’s shoes, understanding their needs, and making the supplier feel part of the company, even if they’re not.” This approach could effectively bridge the gap between the company and its suppliers, subsequently enhancing overall cooperation.
The journalist also addressed the challenges posed by technological advancements in communication. “When we are face to face, there is no room for improvisation. In contrast, digital communication allows us to pre-prepare messages,” he remarked. Caballero advised paying attention to the clarity and professionalism required in written communications such as emails and chats. “Punctuation, grammar, and spelling are key, because we write as we speak and we speak as we write,” he emphasised, illustrating the importance of precision in digital interactions.
Beyond enhancing relationships, Caballero asserted that effective communication could lead to better commercial conditions. He noted, “If the purchasing department develops these soft skills, it will be able to negotiate better prices and guarantee quality in products and services.” By treating suppliers with the same respect afforded to customers, companies can foster a triangular relationship essential for success: “Without suppliers, there are no products; without products, there are no customers. It is a triangle that we must manage with efficient communication,” he concluded.
The insights provided by Caballero reflect a broader trend in the business narrative, as organisations increasingly recognise the value of strong communication practices in ensuring positive outcomes for all parties involved in the supply chain.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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