Ah, the age-old tactics of sleuthing - Internet stalking, I mean 'researching' your potential supplier. It gets serious here, my friend. Much like looking up your ex on social media, you'll have to dig through the all-mighty social media accounts (you got Instagram Page?), and check if your hopeful supplier is a registered member there. It's like a stamp of reliability, an online dating 'verified' blue tick, if you will.

Now, be a picky dater, err, I mean a serious businessman, and look beyond the glossy membership badge. Spy on the ‘join date’. A newborn membership? Hmm, might want to tread softly there. They might not be the scamming kind, but then again, a business partnership is a lot like a relationship. You don't want to go all in, hand-in-hand with someone just out of the crib, now would you?

And oh, your supplier's online presence ain't all about their 'prettiness' on B2B platforms. Swirl your virtual magnifying glass onto some online testimonials, reviews or any ground trampled by their customer's keyboards. Some might be singing praises while others banging war drums. But keep in mind, my friend, everyone has a grumpy customer or two throwing tantrums. Remember not to judge too quick unless it’s a war chant resonating from miles away.

P.S: If I've made it sound like Web-Sherlocking isn't as exciting as an episode of 'Criminal Minds', I'm truly sorry. Well, not really.