Month: April 2025

Networking is more than a catchphrase in business; it is the secret sauce that drives success. Understanding this skill is not only helpful, but it can change the game for women navigating the tricky world of procurement. Networking well can open doors, create alliances, and advance careers in an industry where connections are valuable assets. 

Not only will we discuss the value of networking in this post, but we’ll also offer concrete advice on how to build genuine connections with your suppliers.

The goal of our action plan is to strengthen these bonds through cooperation and trust-building that goes beyond simple negotiations.

By the end of this article, you will understand the significance of networking in procurement and how it can be used as leverage to further one’s career as well as take advantage of new business prospects. So let’s get started right away!

Learn about: 

• Steps in building a strong network
• Tips for attending industry events 
• Connecting with procurement decision-makers 
• Building professional relationships 

Steps in building a strong network 

It can be challenging to build a solid network, particularly for women in business and procurement who are just starting their careers.

However, if you want to grow in your career and find new market ideas that will help your company achieve its objectives, networking in the procurement industry is essential. 

1. Set Clear Objectives: Define your networking goals to focus your efforts effectively, whether it’s career advancement, industry insights, or mentorship.
2. Target Relevant Connections: Identify key players in procurement through online platforms like LinkedIn and industry events, focusing on individuals who align with your goals.
3. Participate Actively: Engage in industry events, join professional associations, and contribute value to your network through sharing insights and offering assistance.
4. Nurture Relationships: Follow up with connections regularly, schedule meetings or calls to deepen relationships, and offer support and mentorship where possible.
5. Stay Authentic: Approach networking with authenticity, showing genuine interest in others and building trust through honest and meaningful interactions.

Tips for attending industry events 

1. Research and Prepare: Before the event, research the agenda, speakers, and attendees to identify key sessions and individuals relevant to your interests and goals. Come prepared with specific topics or questions to initiate conversations and maximize your networking opportunities.
2. Set Clear Objectives: Define what you hope to achieve from the event, whether it’s making new connections, learning about industry trends, or seeking potential collaboration opportunities. Having clear objectives will help you stay focused and make the most of your time.
3. Be Approachable and Engage Proactively: Approach conversations with a friendly and open demeanour, and don’t be afraid to initiate interactions with fellow attendees. Strike up conversations by asking open-ended questions, actively listening, and showing genuine interest in others’ perspectives and experiences.
4. Exchange Contact Information: Be proactive in exchanging contact information with the people you meet. Consider carrying business cards or using digital tools like LinkedIn to connect with new contacts on the spot. Sending a personalized follow-up message after the event helps reinforce the connection and lays the groundwork for future communication.
5. Follow Up and Stay Connected: After the event, follow up with the contacts you’ve made to express your appreciation for the conversation and explore opportunities for further collaboration or discussion. Stay connected by engaging with their content on social media, attending follow-up meetings or events, and nurturing relationships over time.

Connecting with procurement decision-makers 

1. Do Your Research: Before reaching out to decision-makers, take the time to research their background, role, and the organization they represent. Understand their priorities, challenges, and areas of interest within the procurement realm. This knowledge will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your value proposition effectively.
2. Offer Solutions, Not Just Requests: When engaging with decision-makers, focus on how you can add value to their procurement processes. Present innovative solutions, share success stories, and articulate your unique selling points to differentiate yourself from the competition. 
3. Build Relationships Gradually: Establishing rapport with procurement decision-makers takes time and patience. Begin by initiating conversations in a non-intrusive manner, such as through networking events, industry conferences, or mutual connections. Follow up with personalized messages expressing your interest in learning more about their procurement challenges and how you can support their objectives.
4. Provide Value and Insights: Position yourself as a trusted advisor by offering valuable insights and expertise related to procurement trends, best practices, or industry developments. Share relevant resources, articles, or case studies that demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of their sector.
5. Be Persistent and Professional: Persistence is key when it comes to connecting with procurement decision-makers. However, it’s essential to strike the right balance between being persistent and respectful of their time and boundaries. Follow up consistently, but avoid being overly aggressive or pushy. 

Building professional relationships 

1. Be Authentic and Genuine: Authenticity forms the foundation of any successful relationship. Be sincere in your interactions, show genuine interest in others, and strive to build trust and rapport over time.
2. Communicate Effectively: Effective communication is key to building strong relationships. Listen actively to the needs and concerns of your colleagues, clients, and stakeholders, and communicate clearly and transparently in return. Keep lines of communication open, be responsive to inquiries and feedback, and strive to resolve any issues or conflicts proactively and professionally.
3. Show Empathy and Understanding: Empathy is a powerful tool for building connections and fostering trust. Take the time to understand the perspectives, challenges, and motivations of the people you interact with, and demonstrate empathy and compassion in your interactions. Show that you genuinely care about their well-being and success, and be supportive and empathetic in times of difficulty or uncertainty.
4. Offer Support and Collaboration: Building professional relationships is not just about what you can get from others but also what you can give. Offer support, assistance, and collaboration opportunities to your colleagues, clients, and partners. Be generous with your time, resources, and expertise, and look for ways to add value and contribute to their success. 
5. Maintain Consistency and Reliability: Consistency and reliability are essential for building trust and credibility in professional relationships. Honor your commitments, meet deadlines, and deliver on your promises consistently. Be reliable in your actions, and demonstrate integrity and professionalism in all your interactions. 

In Nigeria, women-owned businesses (WOBs) are making great progress in public procurement, exhibiting resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurship across a wide range of industries. 

From technology and construction to agriculture and healthcare, these female entrepreneurs not only perform as vendors but also drive positive change and leave a lasting impact in their communities. 

In this article, we feature remarkable success stories of WOBs in public procurement, showcasing their accomplishments, the industries where they succeed, the transformative impact they have as successful suppliers, and some resources for women that are interested in public procurement in Nigeria. 

1] Nneka Ogwumike

She is the CEO of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, and is more than just a fashion designer; she’s a businesswoman with a vision for social impact.  

Founded in 1998, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble has become a household name in Nigeria, renowned for its high-quality children’s clothing. 

Nneka, however, wasn’t satisfied with just retail success. 

Recognizing the potential of public procurement, she strategically expanded her company’s capacity to meet the stringent quality standards required for government contracts. 

This bold move paid off. 

In 2018, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble secured a significant contract to supply school uniforms across several Nigerian states. 

This achievement not only boosted the company’s growth but also ensured quality and affordability for thousands of students.  

Nneka’s commitment to ethical sourcing practices extends beyond the contract.  

She actively promotes the use of locally-sourced materials and fair labor practices within her company, empowering local communities and setting a strong example for the industry. 

Get to know more about her here: https://www.ruffntumblekids.com 

2] Lola Akande

The CEO of Lella Technologies exemplifies the innovative spirit of WOBs in the tech sector.  

Established in 2012, Lella Technologies focuses on developing educational software and ICT solutions tailored to the Nigerian curriculum. 

Recognizing the growing need for digital literacy in schools and the government’s push for technology integration, Lola actively pursued public procurement opportunities.  

Her dedication paid dividends when Lella Technologies secured a contract to supply and install educational software in public primary schools across a specific Nigerian state (details about the specific state might require further research).  

This achievement not only positioned her company as a leader in the ed-tech space but also played a crucial role in bridging the digital divide in Nigerian education.  

Beyond the software itself, Lola understands the importance of empowering educators.  Lella Technologies incorporates training programs for teachers alongside their software installations, ensuring teachers have the skills and confidence to utilize the technology effectively.

Get to know more about her here: https://www.lellaviolet.com/technologist

3] Dr. Aisha Buhari,

She is a medical doctor and philanthropist, who established the Aisha Buhari Foundation (ABF) in 2016.  

While not a commercial enterprise, the ABF leverages public-private partnerships to procure essential medical supplies and equipment. 

Notably, the ABF collaborates with government agencies and NGOs to deliver medical aid to internally displaced persons (IDPs) camps and underserved communities. 

Dr. Buhari’s leadership and advocacy have demonstrably improved healthcare access for some of Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations. 

The ABF’s success hinges on its ability to secure vital resources through partnerships and public-private collaborations, highlighting another crucial role WOBs can play in public procurement. 

While the ABF doesn’t have a dedicated website, information about their work can be found on partner organization websites. 

Here’s an example: https://www.gatesfoundation.org/about/committed-grants/2017/01/inv-010291 

Here are some resources for WOBs interested in public procurement in Nigeria:

• Federal Ministry of Women Affairs: https://www.internationaldisabilityalliance.org/stakeholder/nigerian-federal-ministry-women-affairs-and-social-development
• National Enterprise Development Council (NEDC): https://smedan.gov.ng/nedep/
• Bank of Industry (BOI): https://www.boi.ng/
• Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP): https://www.bpp.gov.ng/

A Call to Action: Fostering an Inclusive Future

The stories of Nneka, Lola, and Dr. Aisha Buhari are testaments to the immense potential of WOBs in Nigerian public procurement. 

Their achievements not only demonstrate their entrepreneurial spirit and business acumen but also highlight the positive social impact they create.

While challenges persist, such as limited access to information and financing, the tide is turning. 

The Nigerian government’s draft Gender-Responsive Public Procurement Policy and initiatives like the NEPC’s Women in Business Growth Program are steps in the right direction. 

By bridging the data gap on WOB participation, implementing effective support mechanisms, and fostering a culture of gender equality, Nigerian public procurement can become a powerful engine for inclusive economic growth and social development.

These inspiring women are paving the way for a future where WOBs are not just participants but leaders in shaping a more prosperous and equitable Nigeria. Their stories serve as a beacon, illuminating the path towards a future where public procurement empowers not just businesses, but communities and the nation as a whole.

The world of procurement can be a competitive one, and for women entrepreneurs, navigating this traditionally male-dominated field can feel like an uphill battle. However, the tide is turning! Government agencies and large corporations are increasingly prioritizing diversity in their supply chains, recognizing the value and innovation women-owned businesses (WOBs) bring to the table.

This article will empower you as a woman entrepreneur with actionable strategies to advocate for yourself and your WOB in the bidding process, increasing your chances of landing those coveted contracts.

Building Your Confidence: The Foundation for Advocacy

Confidence is key to success in any field, and procurement is no exception. Here’s why a strong belief in yourself and your business is crucial:

• Powerful Negotiations: Securing government contracts often involves negotiation. Confidence allows you to effectively advocate for your business, presenting your competitive pricing and expertise with conviction.
• Projecting Expertise: When you believe in your abilities, it shows! Confidence helps you exude professionalism and impress potential clients, making your WOB stand out from the competition.
• Overcoming Challenges: The bidding process can be complex and present roadblocks. Confidence allows you to approach these challenges with a positive mindset and find solutions to ensure your proposal shines.

Strategies to Cultivate Confidence

• Become an Expert: Knowledge is power! Diligently study procurement best practices, stay updated on industry trends and gain a thorough understanding of relevant regulations. The more you know, the more confident you’ll feel when engaging with potential clients.
• Celebrate Your Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate your accomplishments, both big and small. This reinforces your belief in your abilities and motivates you to continue reaching for higher goals.
• Connect with Successful Women in Procurement: Find mentorship or build relationships with other successful women in the field. Learn from their experiences and draw inspiration from their journeys.
• Positive Self-Talk: Challenge negative self-doubt with positive affirmations. Focus on your strengths, skills, and the unique value your WOB brings to the table.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Rehearse your negotiation strategies, prepare for presentations, and role-play with colleagues. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel in real-world bidding scenarios.

Strategies for Advocacy in Action: Making Your Voice Heard

Now that you’ve built a strong foundation of confidence, let’s explore specific strategies to advocate for your WOB and its capabilities during the bidding process:

• Highlight Your WOB Advantage: Don’t be shy about showcasing the unique value proposition of your woman-owned business. Emphasize your commitment to quality, your understanding of diversity and inclusion best practices, and any certifications you hold as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE).
  
• Network Strategically: Building relationships with key decision-makers at government agencies and large corporations is crucial. Attend industry events, participate in conferences, and connect with procurement professionals on LinkedIn. Let them know about your WOB’s expertise and capabilities.
  
• Do Your Research: Before submitting a bid, thoroughly research the specific needs and priorities of the potential client. Tailor your proposal to directly address these needs, showcasing how your WOB is the perfect fit for the project.
  
• Focus on Value, Not Just Price: While competitive pricing is important, don’t solely focus on being the cheapest option. Emphasize the value your WOB brings beyond cost, such as your innovative approach, exceptional customer service, or proven track record of success.
  
• Become a Subject Matter Expert: Position yourself as a trusted advisor in your field. Publish articles on relevant industry topics, participate in online forums, or offer to speak at industry events. This establishes you as a thought leader and increases your visibility within the procurement landscape.
  
• Build Strategic Partnerships: Consider partnering with other WOBs or established businesses to enhance your bid’s competitiveness. This can allow you to offer a wider range of services or expertise, making your proposal more attractive to potential clients.
  
• Leverage Available Resources: Many government agencies and organizations offer resources specifically designed to support WOBs in the bidding process. These resources can include workshops on proposal writing, access to mentorship programs, or matchmaking events that connect WOBs with potential contracting opportunities. Don’t hesitate to utilize these resources to your advantage.
• Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions: If there are any ambiguities in the bidding documents or the procurement process, don’t be afraid to reach out and clarify. Asking questions demonstrates your proactiveness and desire to ensure a smooth and successful collaboration.
  
• Follow Up and Persist: After submitting your bid, don’t simply wait for a response. Follow up with the contact person at the government agency or corporation to reiterate your interest in the project. Persistence (without being pesky) shows your dedication and commitment to securing the contract. 

Remember: Advocacy is an ongoing process. By consistently implementing these strategies and demonstrating the exceptional value your WOB offers, you’ll position yourself as a strong contender in the bidding landscape. With confidence, perseverance, and a strategic approach, you can effectively advocate for your woman-owned business and compete successfully for those coveted contracts.