What’s your status?  MBE?  WBE?  SDVOB?  VOB?  HUB?  8a?  DBE?

If you need a translator, you are likely unfamiliar with supplier diversity preferences.  In the public sector, legislators pass them and buyers implement them.

Our first consulting client had significant ideological issues with government spending, and even bigger issues with supplier diversity programs.  He quickly got over his ideology with regard to government spending when government sales at his company went from 0% of his gross revs to 10% within a year of working with us.  His issue with supplier diversity preferences remained, but he was a white guy that wasn’t a veteran and didn’t qualify for HUB Zone. 

We continue to advise our clients to get over their bad selves and maximize whatever preferences are appropriate for them to advance their government sales strategies.  We understand the federal preferences, and we maintain a diversity tracking guide to ensure we know which states care about which type of company ownership.  Bid responses have diversity messages incorporated in, although they are NEVER the leading message.  We start with qualifications, allowing diverse status to be a value-add to brilliance, expertise and experience.

Still curious about whether you qualify as HUB, 8a, SDVOB, WBE, DBE, MBE, or VOB?  Drop me a note at stellier@jetcosolutions.com.  I’m helpful, but might tell you to get over yourself if you get crazy on me.