Early in my career, I performed productions for sports teams and coaches. I distilled what I learned from them down to three things; clarity, challenge, and appreciation. I call it CCA. The hard part is clarity because it goes beyond normal communication to ultra communication. A successful production happens in the planning stages. Also, I pay vendors as quickly as possible which is the ultimate in appreciation.

Here are some tips to maintain positive working relationships with vendors in the live event industry: * Clear Communication: Set clear expectations, provide timely feedback, and maintain open communication channels. * Mutual Respect: Treat vendors with respect, value their expertise, and acknowledge their contributions. * Fair Compensation: Ensure timely and fair payment, and avoid unnecessary delays or disputes. * Build Trust: Be reliable, honest, and transparent in your dealings with vendors. * Collaborative Approach: Work together to find solutions, address challenges, and achieve shared goals. * Positive Reinforcement: Acknowledge and appreciate their hard work and dedication.

Be transparent and communicative. Transparency with your vendors is crucial in cultivating lasting partnerships. Clearly outline expectations, timelines, and deliverables right from the start. Regularly scheduled meetings or updates keep everyone aligned, minimizing misunderstandings and enhancing efficiency. Communication becomes a cornerstone for preemptively identifying potential problems and collaboratively finding solutions, which is essential for achieving mutual success. Implementing this approach not only mitigates risks but also builds rapport, demonstrating your commitment to a seamless and professional working relationship. Open dialogue is key, and it’s this continuous exchange that empowers all parties to excel and innovate.

Taking the time to acknowledge their efforts and adaptability goes a long way in igniting goodwill. Whether it’s a simple note, a verbal acknowledgement during meetings, or highlighting their contributions in a broader forum, these gestures strengthen partnerships. Vendors who feel respected and valued are often more willing to go the extra mile, ensuring better collaboration and reliability in the long run. It’s a small investment of time and effort that yields lasting benefits.

Building strong vendor relationships is key to project success. I prioritize clear communication from the start, setting expectations and maintaining open dialogue. Regular check-ins and timely feedback ensure everyone's on the same page. I also believe in positive reinforcement. A simple "thank you" or a public acknowledgment can go a long way in boosting morale and fostering loyalty. When issues arise, I approach them with empathy and a solution-oriented mindset.