Is it time to review your business partnerships?

Powering Possibilities: Chris Harbutt, New Energy Vehicle Solutions

Trust might be the most undervalued currency in business. As leaders, we cannot be experts in everything and nor should we try, but the real skill lies in knowing who to trust with the things we’re not best at, from law to finance to HR…and yes, even vehicles.

We rely on others to help our businesses run smoothly, but how often do we stop and ask whether those providers still deserve our trust? Or are we just in the habit of using them? Relationships that start strong can drift. Service levels fade, priorities shift and before long we are accepting less than we should, simply because it is familiar.

There are some providers and partners that we trust implicitly – earned and secured over a period of time, where they have proven their ability to deliver and support us. But away from these, when was the last time you looked at those who may not be there every day, but are involved in providing significant products and services that your business relies on?

Ask yourself:

• Do they live up to their promises always, sometimes or just enough?
• When things go wrong, do they take ownership or look for someone else to blame?
• Are they attentive between purchases, or only visible when you are actively buying?
• Do they always act with your interests in mind?
• Are they transparent about costs and limitations?
• Do they still make your life easier, or have they just become something else to manage?

Integrity is key

In the world of vehicles and mobility, trust isn’t built on flimsy promises or slick presentations, but on consistently giving good advice and guidance, and being straight when a product doesn’t fit. It’s about being transparent when prices change and proactive when a better solution appears or exists – even if the margin or revenue is less for the provider.

Any supplier should easily demonstrate their ability and knowledge of their industry, but trusted partners take time to understand your business, pressures, ambitions and objectives. They don’t just ask what your vehicle choice or policy is – they ask why and how it fits your needs operationally, financially and strategically. Only then can they truly align a solution to you and not just a monthly payment.

Trust also builds when you are secure in the knowledge that your provider will do what they say they will and take responsibility for any issues – not deflect or blame others.

We have built NEV Leasing to be different and better in a marketplace that is more interested in keeping business than keeping your word. We will ask, listen and understand, and we are always honest about what we think is the best solution, even if that means pointing you somewhere else.

We believe these are the foundations for strong relationships, and how you become a trusted partner.