Lori Hetzer on Hand-Vetted [an Ingenuity Group interview]
IG – Your website mentions “hand-vetted” suppliers. Explain?
LH – It’s impossible to know whether a potential supplier is right for a project or even a quote without spending time with them. “Trust me” doesn’t work anymore. Performance is all about relationships. That’s why we say It’s Who You Know – and It’s Who You Trust.
IG – But others are talking fast quotes, huge databases of suppliers – matched by AI.
LH – Yes, that seems to be the trend with some. Many tell horror stories of mismatches and 11th-hour challenges. We find it’s important to get it right the first time.
IG – So hand-vetted is a hands-on approach to who you represent?
LH – It’s a must. Vetting can’t only be done by algorithms and qualifier forms. It takes experience and “roll-up-your-sleeves” meetings. Without these, you’re rolling the dice.
IG – That’s time-consuming and like a needle in a haystack, though.
LH – It can be. But it’s necessary. H&A’s mission is to bring compassion back into business. Listening, learning, understanding and delivering. Building empathetic relationships with open communication, integrity and a desire to work closely together.
IG – Still seems difficult to keep that up.
LH – I liken it to a symphony orchestra. We bring the most talented musicians together and then work as experienced conductors to create the best music. It’s what works for us. Every piece is important and every performance requires dedication and heart-felt passion.
IG – Interesting analogy. Thank you, Lori.
IG – Next time we’ll be talking with Lori about – the importance of “Doing It Right The First Time.” Thanks for joining us.
