Jeremy Bellman and Gonzo Araya created Socio in order to pursue their passion for teaching partnering skills and helping sourcing professionals become partners with their stakeholders and suppliers.
Six years ago, they made an initial connection with a corporate partner at a NGLCC matchmaking event. Jeremy and Gonzo spent years developing a relationship with the corporate partner’s supplier diversity team, procurement professionals, and business owners.
Their strategy for cultivating that relationship included regularly scheduled phone calls, targeted emails, participating in the partner’s mentorship program, and purposeful interactions in meetings and at NGLCC events like the International Business & Leadership Conference, matchmakers and galas. They also took the time to develop a more informal relationship, like going out to happy hours and coffee. Jeremy and Gonzo’s combined efforts to develop and maintain a strong relationship with the corporate partner led them to an opportunity to work on a pilot program to integrate a unique set of diverse suppliers into their supply chain.
When asked what advice he would give to other LGBTBEs, Gonzo replied, “Understand what the client is trying to achieve, know the decision-making process, and make it easy for them to do business with you.” Gonzo also emphasized the importance of ensuring that your brand is on par across all touch-points before being too visible, knowing what you’re selling and the audience you’re selling to, and taking advantage of tier 2 opportunities in order to succeed.
According to Gonzo, Socio’s LGBTBE certification has given them increased access, visibility, and opportunities. Socio is currently thrilled to be developing a cobranded product with their client, and hopes to experience controlled and sustainable growth in the future.
Get to know the great work Socio onine:
Wesbsite: www.thinksocio.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thinksocio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thinksocio