Supplier Communication Tips

Jiga differentiates itself from other platforms by providing direct communication with customers, allowing for the opportunity to build strong, continued partnerships. The best way to succeed with Jiga is to create trusted relationships with customers who will order from you again and again. That trust is built on quality parts, on time delivery, and consistently excellent communication.

Here are some proven methods to improve your customer communication on the jiga platform:

A new RFQ isn’t just an opportunity for a single order. It’s a chance to develop a connection with a unique buyer, or continue to build on an existing partnership.

As soon as you receive a new RFQ, and you don’t expect to Decline it, greet the customer and let them know you’re working on their quote. The more details the better.

❌No communication: Leaving an RFQ open on your portal with no indication that you have received it or that you’re working on it leaves the customer feeling unsure and unimportant.

👍Good communication:

✅Great communication:

Leaving detailed information can sometimes turn a decline into an opportunity.

😐Insufficient information

✅Detailed information

We have seen similar discussions turn from declines into orders. Detailed information also helps us identify the tricky requirements of an RFQ, which allows us to find solutions faster.

Create early engagement and show your expertise by asking DFM questions or provide comments on the model. To do so, click on the line item for the part you want to comment on, then go to the “DFM Feedback” tab at the top of the modal. Click “Add Comment” and pinpoint a specific location on the model.

For example, you can point out that a specific feature may be difficult to manufacture or ask about tolerances or inserts in specific locations:

Customers are generally receptive and appreciative of feedback about their part’s design. Your expertise could help find opportunities to improve the manufacturability or cost of their parts.

Suggesting a deviation or substitution, and explaining why it could be the better option, can help strengthen your relationship with that customer.

Informing the customer when problems arise, and what is being done to mitigate the issue, reinforces that the customer can trust that their parts are in good hands. Always provide an estimated lead time impact after exploring all options to mitigate the delay such as upgraded shipping and expedite costs. Never wait until after the due date to inform of the delay.

❌Bad communication:

✅Great communication:

🏅Bonus points! Customers also love positive updates. Some of our most successful suppliers make a habit of providing unprompted “on-track” updates and progress photos.

📸 Suppliers who upload photos of finished parts build more trust and often receive more repeat orders.

Be coherent and clear: Write in complete sentences and avoid confusion.

❌ “Hi, I think we might be able to do this, but not sure about the tolerance, maybe need to check with someone.”

✅ “We reviewed the drawing and can / can’t meet the 0.01mm tolerance requirement.”

Be Brief Keep messages short and relevant. Don’t over-explain, get into your personal issues or add unrelated details

❌ “Things have been hectic lately with new construction work, and we’ve had a lot going on, but I’ll try to get to it soon.”

✅ “Hi, I got your RFQ. It will be ready this evening (PST).”

Be Honest and Upfront About Capabilities If you can’t do something, say so right away - don’t waste the customer’s time.

❌ “We’ll try to figure something out and let you know later.”

✅ “We can’t do 5-axis on this part, so sadly I’d have to decline the quote.”

Important notes: