Do these RFQs go to an unlimited number of Suppliers, Agents, Reps, Brokers and off-shore Suppliers?

• First Index limits its Membership such that each RFQ receives, on average, 3 to 6 quotes.
• First Index does not allow Agents, Brokers or offshore Suppliers to participate in the Research-generated RFQs.  We only allow U.S. or Canadian Suppliers to join our Lead Generation Service.  We will allow Manufacturers' Representatives to join the Membership, but only after they have signed a document stating that they will utilize the leads  only for an explicitly stated principal Supplier listed on said letter.
• This is one of the major differentiators between First Index and its competition.  We have been informed by multiple users of a number of lead generation services that other companies allow ANY company, including trading companies, agents, brokers and off-shore Suppliers to join their service.  This, we have been told, has lead to RFQs going to over 700 entities leading to over 100 quotes. 
• First Index is adamant that this type of free for all is not something we want our Buyers or Suppliers to undertake. 

Do I pay commissions to First Index when I win work?

• No.  First Index does not take commissions on any work that you win.  In fact, you can walk away with your new customers after your 12 month subscription ends and continue to do ongoing work.  We hope, however, that you make First Index part of your yearly marketing efforts.

I thought most Buyers were trying to lessen the number of Suppliers they use.  Why would Buyers want to add new Suppliers through First Index?

• Many Buyers do want to shorten their list of vendors.  However, many are seeking new Suppliers that can handle more projects under one roof.  This means that some old Suppliers are replaced by more diverse shops.  Also, many industries are feverishly seeking Suppliers because of a lack of capacity among their preferred vendors.  For example, some of our OEM customers in the Oil & Gas industry are actively seeking additional sources for machining.  Over the past 15 years, we have found that Buyers are constantly adding First Index Members to RFQs and awarding work to those Suppliers.

As a First Index Member, do I submit my quote to First Index or directly to the Buyer?

• We invite you to submit your quote directly to the Buyer via your secure First Index log-in.  In addition, you may want to also submit your quote and supporting materials in your usual manner.  Submitting your quote directly through your log-in page gives you a number of advantages.  First, the Buyer receives an immediate email notification that you submitted a quote.  Second, by quoting through the site, you will automatically be included in a spreadsheet that the Buyer can utilize for quote analysis. 

I've heard that Buyers use online services such as First Index simply to get pricing and keep their existing Suppliers honest. Do Buyers actually intend to source projects with First Index Members?

• In rare cases, Buyers have used First Index as a pricing mechanism.  However, since our Sourcing Advisors and Researchers work directly with every Buyer that posts RFQs with us, it is very difficult for Buyers to continue to post projects without giving the Suppliers feedback and eventually awarding work.  We will not continue to post RFQs from Buyers who never communicate with, or award work to First Index Members.  This is unlike what transpires with other lead generation services that do not have such safeguards. 
• Buyers have been awarding work to First Index Members for 15 years.  Our commitment to quality opportunities has resulted in thousands of success stories over the years.  Please refer to our case study/testimonial page for some evidence.

How do I get started receiving RFQs as a Supplier/Member of First Index?

• Register your company and a Representative that handles the OEMs and Suppliers in your area will contact you to discuss Membership.  Or, contact us on 888-535-8583 (ext. 146).  From Canada, call 509-363-1997 (ext. 146). Registration Form.