Working as a brick supplier includes carrying out all the tasks that are carried out in the general distribution. An important aspect of the work is the order of the material, both for wholesale and retail.
In large companies, orders for materials are computerised so that they are automatically performed when the system detects a reduction to a pre-established limit. In smaller companies, the material has to be counted manually, and the documentation related to the orders has to be managed manually.
In any case, you have to do a lot of administrative work that requires a lot of coordination. In addition, the type and quantity of material needed must be established with the suppliers. This part of the work also involves performing a job in the warehouse, controlling the boxes, as well as their storage and distribution.
Bricks Supplier Characteristics
To work as a brick supplier, the worker must have:
- Ability to convince and professionalism to deal with suppliers and customers. Many customers expect the advice of an expert salesman.
- An excellent level of spoken and written English.
- Practical knowledge of information technologies (in general, internet and databases).
- Advanced mathematical knowledge, to make calculations, estimate costs and quantities of goods, and manage large amounts of money.
- Resistance to spend a lot of time standing or walking.
The brick supplier will have to be able to do the following:
- Improve their knowledge about the products they sell, and stay up to date on new products, materials, and technologies.
- Teamwork.
- Learn quickly.
- The work could be unsuitable for people who suffer dust allergies or who have breathing difficulties.
Suppliers and Customers
The suppliers of construction materials have a lot of contact with customers. They make telephone consultations and attend them in person. Much of this work involves giving advice on which are the most suitable materials, they also advise on the tools and accessories that should be used in the construction tasks.
Most suppliers of construction materials have access to a product database or a web page where they consult prices, specifications, techniques, and information on health and safety for customers. Sometimes, they have to make estimates about quantities and prices to place large orders.
Potential Customers
The stores and deposits of construction material and construction companies make up a special clientele, since they can generate continuous contracts of supply, although at less lucrative prices. And they are ventures that can be easily located and reached by direct marketing.
The external visits and prospects are the most indicated forms, due to the fact that they are relatively cheap and effective. Periodically this should be reinforced, with more prospects and personalised emails sent.
Bricks Composition
Currently, there are dozens of types of bricks. The market, however, is basically dominated by two models: the common or solid, smaller and without holes, and the hollow, larger and with gaps depending on the holes.
Brick-makers generally produce other elements besides bricks, such as tiles, handles, and glasses.
The finished products are placed in an organised way in the commercial stock, where they are easily identified, loaded and unloaded. It is made by the auxiliaries of the production team.
All merchandise sold must be separated, lowered from stock, have your tax bill issued, be loaded into the transport vehicle and be delivered. This operation involves people from all areas.