6 Ways Purchasers Get More Respect

PurchTips - Edition # 75 May 17, 2005

By Charles Dominick, C.P.M., SPSM

Are You Getting The Respect You Deserve?

If you are like most purchasers, you feel that you get less respect than you deserve.

Like any other business improvement, getting more respect involves a strategy. Here are six things you can do to increase the respect you get in the workplace. Apply them all for maximum impact.

1. Over-Deliver. You have goals for the year, right? If you reach those goals, you
   may feel that you've done really well. Does management share this view? Usually,
   managers see achieving goals as expected or minimum performance. You must
   exceed your goals to be truly impressive.
2. Communicate Your Value. It is great if you produce great results. But is anyone
   going out of their way to see how well you're doing? Probably not. So be sure to
   communicate what you've accomplished. Otherwise, it is likely that no one will know
   what you've done. Or worse. They may think you've done nothing!
3. Consciously Develop Relationships. The best way to develop good relationships
   in purchasing is to deliver great service. Go above and beyond the call of duty.
   Challenge yourself to return calls faster. Give status updates more frequently.
   Follow up to make sure your manager or internal customer is happy. And if things go
   wrong - apologize and show your commitment to getting things corrected.
4. Join a Board of Directors. Many trade and professional associations need
   talented volunteers. Joining a board demonstrates your commitment to your business,
   profession, and/or industry.
5. Have an Article or Interview Published. If a third party wants to write about your
   success, others are more likely to notice that you really do your job well.
   Outside opinions increase your credibility.
6. Get Certified. Meeting third-party standards for excellence is objective proof of your capabilities. Certification is another external credibility source.

Spotlight On Professional Development Opportunities

Are you tired of not getting enough opportunities, respect, and money out of your purchasing career? Well, guess what? Nothing will change unless you take action towards becoming a world-class purchasing professional.

There is an impressive qualification that will set you apart from the average purchaser. It is the Senior Professional in Supply Management (SPSM) Certification. And it is recognized internationally.

Are you ready to take the action necessary to earn more opportunities, more respect, and more money? If so, learn about the SPSM Certification by visiting:

www.NextLevelPurchasing.com

Valuable Purchasing Links!

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Since the last edition of PurchTips, new purchasing jobs have been posted at www.NextLevelPurchasing.com/jobs

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