Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. 206 Unit 3 Investigating Career Pathways in Human Services Buyers meet suppliers through a multitude of venues. These venues include trade shows, meetings, and conferences. This may involve frequent travel to these events. Depending on the industry, buyers may even travel abroad. Vendors may come to buyers trying to gain their business. Buyers and suppliers also connect through phone calls, as well as electronic and print media. Sometimes, buyers work with manufacturers to produce a specific desired product. In addition to working with suppliers, buyers also study current inventory levels and determine when to order new items. Retail buyers may even determine which products to sell and when items will be marked down. They decide when to reorder products. Buyers play a huge role in the success of an organization. When the needed supplies for manufacturing, selling, or providing a service are made available, organizations may succeed. Reading Recall 1. Describe the role of a consumer advocate. 2. In what ways do financial services workers help their clients? 3. Name three specific careers in financial services. 4. Describe the typical job duties of a customer service representative. 5. Name three types of buying careers. iofoto/Shutterstock.com Figure 8.4 Anything that can be purchased in a retail store, such as kitchen dishes and utensils, was likely purchased by a retail buyer. The exception is if the retailer is also the manufacturer of the product. What are some factors buyers must consider when evaluating suppliers?