Guide
Handle a vendor who keeps missing deadlines
A calm, structured way to address a recurring problem before it becomes your problem too.
Confirm it's actually a pattern, not a one-off
Everyone misses a deadline occasionally. Before escalating, check whether this is the second or third time, one bad week doesn't necessarily mean a bad vendor.
Raise it directly and specifically
'This is the third order that's shipped late this quarter' is harder to dismiss than a vague 'things have been slow lately'. Bring dates and specifics to the conversation.
Ask what's actually causing it
Sometimes it's a fixable problem on their end (a staffing issue, a supply shortage) that they'll tell you about if you ask directly instead of just complaining.
Build in buffer time until trust is rebuilt
If you can't switch vendors immediately, quietly build extra lead time into your own planning so their delays stop cascading into your customer commitments.
Have a backup vendor identified before you need one
Don't wait until a relationship completely breaks down to start looking for alternatives. Knowing your options in advance gives you real leverage in the conversation, not just a threat.
That’s the whole thing.
Keep going
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