Buyers can now secure preferential treatment from suppliers with key interactions.
Buyers in business relationships need to improve their standing with suppliers to get better treatment. A study looked at specific interactions that helped buyers do this. They found two types of episodes: ones influenced by external factors and ones planned strategically. Communication and commitment were key in these interactions. Transparency, willingness to accept short-term losses, and supportive actions also played a big role in improving relationships. The study used interviews and artificial intelligence to analyze these episodes and shed light on how buyers can enhance their relationships with suppliers.