How can you build strong vendor relationships while promoting diversity and inclusion in FM?

As a facility manager, you know how important it is to work with reliable and competent vendors who can deliver quality services and products. But did you know that you can also leverage your vendor relationships to promote diversity and inclusion in your organization and industry? In this article, we will share some tips on how you can build strong vendor relationships while fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion in FM.

1 Why vendor diversity and inclusion matters

Vendor diversity and inclusion involves engaging and supporting vendors who are owned or operated by people from historically underrepresented or marginalized groups. This practice can offer a range of benefits to your organization, such as enhancing your reputation, expanding your network, improving innovation and creativity, reducing risk, and supporting economic development. Additionally, it can also help you comply with legal and regulatory requirements, as well as demonstrate your commitment to social justice.

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Ho Chee Kit

Senior Director at C&W Services - Chief Engineer ("' 积福"工程师) and Net Zero Assets(净零资产管理)
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Vendor diversity encourages companies to reach out to underserved, underrepresented communities. This creates jobs, wealth, better health and education in those disadvantaged communities. A more diverse supply chain impacts the bottom line through innovation, competitiveness and sustainability.

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Yi Long Chee ,PBM

Facilities Manager | Community Leader | M.BEnv
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In facilities management, building strong vendor relationships while promoting diversity and inclusion involves actively seeking vendors from diverse backgrounds. This approach not only supports these businesses but also brings unique insights and solutions to FM. Key practices include maintaining open and respectful communication, ensuring fair and transparent procurement practices, and educating the team about the importance of diversity. By leading by example and fostering a culture that values and respects diversity, building managers can build more effective and inclusive vendor relationships.

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Mohan J

Administration Manager at Leather Works
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The strong vendor relationship will be an added advantage for an effective FM operation... 1.The first and foremost aspect to create a strong relationship with vendor is to adhere with the payment terms strictly as per agreed..Never miss their payment date, if need time get approval for late payment which will give you a geniuness in your operation... 2.Never ever order wrong items and increase the dead stock of your vendor... 3.clearly mention the reason for getting a quote whether for comparison or to purchase... If you satisfy with the above statements than your relationship with a vendor will be strong enough...

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Muhammad Ashraf Sial P.E®

Professional Engineer |FEED Construction |Project Management |MEP |Building Services |NEOM | OXAGON |TROJENA | BIM| Projects & Developments |Technical Engineering| Google Certified-PM
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Vendor, down the line, become a critical part of your overall organisational structure. Keeping them diverse not just shows your own commitment to diversity but also making sure whom you do business with. Furthermore Inclusion increases work force spectrum of labour force with involvement at different managemental levels 👏. A vendor having same values as yours can fulfill your needs better than others.

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2 How to find and select diverse vendors

To build strong vendor relationships while promoting diversity and inclusion, the first step is to find and select diverse vendors who can meet your needs and expectations. This can be done by conducting a vendor diversity audit to assess your current vendor mix and identify any gaps or opportunities for improvement. Additionally, you should set clear and realistic goals and criteria for vendor diversity and inclusion, such as the percentage of spend, the number of contracts, or the quality standards. Furthermore, you should seek out certified or registered vendors from reputable organizations, such as the NMSDC, WBENC, or NGLCC. It's also important to invite and encourage diverse vendors to participate in your procurement process and provide them with fair and transparent information and feedback. Lastly, evaluate and compare diverse vendors based on their qualifications, performance, and value proposition - not on their identity or background.

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Marc P.

Business Development Manager @ KBR, Inc. | Information Analytics
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You have to seek opinions from those vendors not in your corporate market and get their opionion on the issues you face. This will give you a different perspective to new ways of working and a more diverse supply chain.

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3 How to manage and develop diverse vendors

The second step to building strong vendor relationships while promoting diversity and inclusion is to manage and develop diverse vendors who can grow and succeed with you. You can do this by communicating and collaborating with them regularly and respectfully, establishing clear expectations and responsibilities. It is also important to provide constructive feedback and recognition, as well as addressing any issues or concerns promptly and professionally. Additionally, you should offer opportunities for learning and development, such as training, mentoring, coaching, or networking. Furthermore, you should support diverse vendors in overcoming any challenges or barriers they may face. Lastly, it is essential to measure and monitor the impact of your vendor diversity and inclusion efforts, celebrating and sharing your achievements and best practices.

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4 How to advocate and influence for vendor diversity and inclusion

Advancing vendor diversity and inclusion is the third step to building strong vendor relationships. To do this, it is important to educate and engage stakeholders, such as senior management, employees, customers, and peers on the benefits of vendor diversity and inclusion. Additionally, creating policies and procedures that support and promote vendor diversity and inclusion can be beneficial. Partnering with other organizations or associations that share a commitment to vendor diversity and inclusion can also be effective. Showcasing and highlighting diverse vendors and their stories, achievements, and contributions can inspire others to follow suit. Lastly, challenging any biases, stereotypes, or discrimination that may hinder vendor diversity and inclusion is essential for advocating for change and improvement.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you build strong vendor relationships while promoting diversity and inclusion in FM?

1

2

3

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1 Why vendor diversity and inclusion matters

2 How to find and select diverse vendors

3 How to manage and develop diverse vendors

4 How to advocate and influence for vendor diversity and inclusion

5 Here’s what else to consider

Facility Management (FM)

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How can you build strong vendor relationships while promoting diversity and inclusion in FM?

1

2

3

4

5

1 Why vendor diversity and inclusion matters

2 How to find and select diverse vendors

3 How to manage and develop diverse vendors

4 How to advocate and influence for vendor diversity and inclusion

5 Here’s what else to consider

Facility Management (FM)

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