Quick Answer
An interested buyer is not yet a confirmed order. This OEM sourcing experience shows why ongoing preparation, respectful follow-up and protection of customer information matter even when a project is put on hold.
At a Glance
| Perspective | Andy Lee’s firsthand account of an OEM sourcing discussion |
|---|---|
| Timeline described | An initial approach, four years of waiting, then a renewed discussion |
| Outcome | The customer said management was not ready to outsource production. |
| Central lesson | Stay prepared and respect the customer’s timing and confidential information. |
Sources: [1] Andy Lee — Maybe Another Four Years? Original LinkedIn post
A conversation that took four years to return
Four years before the exchange described in my LinkedIn post, I contacted a prospective customer about our OEM manufacturing service. He was interested, but his team was developing a new product and asked me to wait. In sales, a short request to wait can turn into a very long interval.
When I later sent an update about our company’s progress, he replied that they were looking to expand manufacturing capacity. He asked whether we would consider becoming a supplier and introduced the colleague responsible for sourcing. After waiting so long, it was encouraging to have a concrete conversation again.
Sources: [1] Andy Lee — Maybe Another Four Years? Original LinkedIn post
Confidentiality belongs at the beginning
I prepared an NDA because respecting a customer’s designs, intellectual property and confidential information is part of how we approach OEM relationships. That commitment should be consistent, whether the opportunity is large or small and whether an order follows immediately or much later.
The initial discussion went smoothly. After I sent the NDA, however, there was another period of silence.
Sources: [1] Andy Lee — Maybe Another Four Years? Original LinkedIn post
Interest and approval are different stages
Two weeks later, the customer explained that management was not yet ready to outsource production and would contact us when it was. The sourcing conversation had reopened, but the production decision had not been made.
I do not blame anyone. After more than 20 years in sales, I have learned that an encouraging exchange can be followed by a pause. A buyer’s interest, an internal review and authorization to place an order are different stages.
Sources: [1] Andy Lee — Maybe Another Four Years? Original LinkedIn post
What I take from the experience
For me, the useful response is to keep improving what we can control: our manufacturing capability, the clarity of our communication and the care we take with customer information. A follow-up is more meaningful when it brings a relevant update rather than simply asking for a decision.
A conversation is still better than silence. Perhaps cooperation comes next month or next year. Hopefully, it will not take another four years.
- Keep opportunity status realistic until a decision is confirmed.
- Share relevant manufacturing improvements when following up.
- Treat customer information carefully throughout the relationship.
- Leave room for the customer’s internal timing.
Common Questions
Did the renewed discussion result in an order?
The account ends with the customer saying management was not ready to outsource. It does not describe a confirmed order or supplier appointment.
Which customer is this story about?
The original post does not identify the customer. This article preserves that anonymity.
What is the practical lesson for an OEM supplier?
Keep developing relevant capabilities and communicating useful updates, while distinguishing interest from a confirmed production decision.