In procurement, smart decisions aren’t built on contracts alone —
they’re built on reading the situation and understanding people.
A professional with emotional intelligence doesn’t just do the job.
They know when to speak, when to listen, and when to hold back.
I remember my time as a Procurement Officer —
When a supplier was going through a tough situation,
my first question was always:
“How can I support you right now?”
The result?
More commitment, stronger relationships, and better outcomes — even under pressure.
Later, when I worked as a supplier,
I saw clearly how rare it was for buyers to acknowledge the human side of the supplier relationship.
Many stuck strictly to the terms of the contract —
ignoring the fact that the world had changed since that agreement was signed.
📉 And the consequences?
Delays, escalations, financial loss…
Not because the supplier failed — but because no one paused to understand.
📊 Data Supports the Difference:
A study by TalentSmart found that:
- 90% of top performers have high emotional intelligence
- They outperform their peers by 20%, even when technical skills are similar
In a world where many focus only on systems and procedures,
the professionals with true emotional intelligence are the ones who lead calmly through crises
— and solve problems before they grow.
🧩 Emotional intelligence isn’t a luxury.
It’s what makes the difference when it matters most.
✅ If you believe your role isn’t just to enforce contract terms,
but to protect value and ensure continuity,
then emotional intelligence is one of your strongest tools.
Let me say this:
While I’ve worked with a few buyers who truly understood this —
who supported us through real challenges — they were the exception, not the norm.
They were rare — and unforgettable.
✋ A question before you go:
When was the last time you brought your humanity into a supplier conversation?
Did it change the result?
Share your experience.
It might shift someone else’s perspective.