When is the right time to change suppliers?

When you're running a small business, you will inevitability have suppliers that provide products or services to you. From website designers to accountants to banks, several companies will be providing you with a service.

But sometimes, the supplier you're with isn't performing up to scratch and now (with the economy like it is) you may be considering changing them. So, the question you need to ask yourself is should you stick with the devil you know or change to someone else who could provide you with a better service?

If you're considering changing suppliers, the first thing you should do before you change them is talk/email your existing supplier and tell them what you're not happy with. You'll be amazed how often they'll be prepared to bend over backwards to accommodate your request. A recent supplier of ours cut their prices in half when we asked about it. But you won't know unless you ask.

If talking doesn't work, then you'll need to start shopping around. Always ask for a trial with a new supplier. That way, it gives you a chance to try them out while still sticking with your existing supplier. If you don't like the new supplier, you haven't lost out by dropping your old supplier.

Be specific about the service and product that you're expecting from the new supplier and make sure it's written down. That way, if there's problems, you've got something to refer to.

Trial periods and being specific should help to cut down on any problems with new suppliers, but remember talking to your existing provider can work wonders too.