Use AI to prepare a structured question list before meeting a supplier or wholesaler about specialty parts.

Before you visit or call a supplier about unfamiliar parts, specialty fixtures, or bulk orders, it's easy to forget key details or get confused by technical specs. Walking in unprepared wastes your time and theirs—and you might miss important info about lead times, alternatives, or compatibility. 1. Open ChatGPT and describe the job you're sourcing for. Include what the customer wants, any brand preferences, and the problem you're solving. 2. Ask AI to generate a list of specific questions to ask your supplier—covering availability, pricing, alternatives, compatibility, warranties, and installation requirements. 3. Tell AI to flag any technical terms or specs you should clarify (like pressure ratings, certifications, or material types) so you don't leave confused. 4. Ask AI to organize the questions by priority—what you must know before buying versus nice-to-know details. 5. Copy the list to your phone notes or print it, and bring it with you to the supplier meeting or have it open during the call. 6. After the meeting, paste the supplier's answers back into ChatGPT and ask it to summarize next steps, compare options, or highlight any red flags you should discuss with the customer. You'll walk in organized, ask smarter questions, and leave with all the info you need to move forward confidently—no second trips or follow-up calls.

March 14, 2026