At Sweet Music, I understand that establishing strong relationships with suppliers is key to your business's success. That’s why I travel to China once or twice a year to meet with suppliers in the music industry. My travels have taken me to various regions, each contributing to my expertise in sourcing quality materials and products.
In 1999, I visited Inner Mongolia to see firsthand the areas where the horses that supply the tails originate. This experience deepened my understanding of the sourcing process.
In 2001, I traveled to Hebei province to visit several musical instrument factories, further enhancing my connections in the industry.
In 2002, I set up a buy for a client in London, England, ensuring they received the best quality products. The following year, in 2003, I attended the Musikmesse trade show in Frankfurt, Germany, where I met with several suppliers from Europe and Asia on behalf of clients in the US and Canada. This event was instrumental in building my network and understanding the global music market.
My travels continued in 2004 when I went to Beijing and Dalian, China, to meet with suppliers on behalf of clients in the US. In 2005, I visited a mandolin and banjo factory in Kimpo, South Korea, again for a US client. The following year, I traveled to Vietnam to assist a banjo maker based in California.
From 2007 through 2019, I attended Musikmesse in Frankfurt and Shanghai, meeting with suppliers on behalf of clients in the US and Canada. I continued these travels in 2022 and 2023, ensuring I stay connected with the best suppliers in the industry.
Why In-Person Meetings Matter
While emails, instant messages, and Zoom calls have become commonplace in today's business world, nothing compares to the effectiveness of face-to-face communication. Meeting in person allows for clearer communication, as nuances can be easily missed in written or virtual exchanges. Discussing requirements face-to-face ensures that both parties fully understand the specifications and expectations.
Building trust is another critical advantage. Personal interactions foster stronger relationships, helping to build rapport and trust, which can lead to better cooperation and more favorable terms. Additionally, in-person discussions provide immediate feedback and clarification, helping to avoid misunderstandings and ensuring that both parties are aligned on goals.
Being present also enhances collaboration. It allows for brainstorming and collaborative problem-solving, which can lead to innovative solutions tailored to your needs.
If you're looking for a more personalized approach to sourcing in the music industry, I invite you to reach out to discuss your needs. Together, we can ensure your product requirements are met with the highest standards!
