How do you find trustworthy manufacturers?

This is the golden question.

 I have to tell ya, part of this is straight woo-woo and part of this based on what a manufacturer can show me.

 Let's dive into the woo-woo, lol. When I am looking for a manufacturer, it all begins with an email or a message in Alibaba. How that message comes back, is it friendly, does it address my specific questions, are they adding additional information to the response all add up and help me form a gut feeling. I know this isn't a fair or explainable way to find a reputable manufacturer, but sometimes you just know. If you can't get an answer to a specific question at the beginning of a relationship- how will you down the road? 

 Okay, now maybe you aren't a woo-woo human, and that is okay, my husband would not approve of the answer above and that is why I am going to give you the straight answer if you like facts! 

Ask for proof of certifications that are important to you, photos of the factory or their showroom (if they have one), and you can even ask for a list of customers they work with or reviews from past clients. If it is possible, visit a local manufacturer. Always ask for samples. Sometimes the best communication can be through a product. This gives you literal touch points to be able to discuss and may improve your communication.

 The other option is to attend trade shows. Oftentimes, there are manufacturers exhibiting at shows that are trying to find people like you. Having a face to face conversation with a manufacturer = priceless!

Here's the kicker- sometimes my communication with a new vendor stinks because I am not clear on what I want. There is a lot of room for error in these conversations and the fault is all mine. I cannot expect someone to read my mind in a foreign language, lol. I suggest getting really clear with what you want before you attempt communicating with a new manufacturer- this will improve the conversation dramatically!