Distributors Can Help Your Business

RCS Influencer Mandy McIntyre says a trusted relationship with a distributor is a contractor’s best friend.   

If you aren’t utilizing your designated sales representative, then you are missing out on additional help with your business. Having one point of contact for ordering materials, scheduling deliveries, getting quotes, etc., will save you both time and money.   

I can think of one sales rep in particular (and if you’re reading this, you know who you are) that truly exemplifies trust and customer service. He’s always gone above and beyond for our business, and we’ve followed him to and from a few companies throughout the years.  

Each distributor you work with should have a dedicated sales representative for your company. If you don’t know who that person is, then it’s time to find out why they haven’t contacted you. You should have their email, direct office number and most importantly their cell phone number. Schedule a meeting to discuss your specific needs and preferences. Do you like certain products they don’t carry? They may be able to stock smaller quantities for you and have everything you need in one place versus going to multiple vendors.  

A good sales rep can assist with quotes for projects, questions on materials, letters to customers explaining material delays and issues, (and we’re all in that battle right now) help with credits and rebates, and even drop off materials in a pinch for smaller items. You can also get some fun perks such as lunches, entertainment and donations towards team building events for your business. The job of a sales representative is to make your life as a contractor easier and since you’re paying for materials regardless, be sure to utilize all your distributors have to offer!    

 Mandy McIntyre is the Operations Officer at 1st Choice Roofing Company. See her full bio here.