Supply chains are responsible for global economic growth and stability, and its various positions are in high demand nowadays. However, with workers from the baby boomer generation retiring, and not enough millennials are being recruited for the jobs, it has been the main issue in the industry so far.
Interested in playing a role in creating products from start to finish, and watch the economy soar? It should be a no-brainer where to start in your career, even if you’re starting out at entry-level, with these steps.
Know What Supply Chain Is
Supply chain is basically making sure that a product is being made from raw material to the finished version. All jobs in the supply chain industry should be clearly defined in terms of scope and responsibilities; and many times, these scopes and responsibilities change over time.
Also, keep in mind that many of the roles change, whenever the requirements, regulations, technology, etc. change.
Know Your Skills
“When you’re updating your resume, make sure you highlight your skills,” said Ashton Gargett, recruiter at Study demic and Big Assignments. “In many supply-chain positions, companies are looking for people who have skills in communication, Microsoft Excel and Access, relationship management, attention to detail, and have the ability to analyze data and negotiate.
If you lack experience in any of these, then you need to fix them right away.”
Gain More Experience
If you’re lacking in certain areas of experience or skills, you may want to go back and work on those things, before applying to a supply chain position. Sign up for a logistics course (or certificate, or similar training, courses), and then apply for internships, so that you can gain the background and skills that you need when going into the industry.
Having these types of certifications may help you get your foot in the door, or at least, make you stand out as valuable for future consideration.
Find The Right Role
The supply chain industry offers many roles to choose from: Procurement Analyst, Logistics Manager, Inventory Specialist, Purchasing Manager, and Warehouse Manager (just to name a few). Just keep in mind that no matter what position you’re looking to fill, you have to have the skills for it.
Also, no matter what role you apply for, it’s best to start at entry-level, so that you get your feet wet, and be ready for future opportunities that may open up.
Explore Your Career Options
Not sure how to pursue a career in supply chain? It’s understandable that job titles may vary or sound similar to each other. In fact, two companies might have the same position, but the list of duties and responsible differ from each other.
However, all you have to do in this instance is explore your options: What skills do you have at hand? Which skills are you still lacking? And then, which company best corresponds with your skillset? Having a clear idea of what you have and don’t have will help you influence your career choice for the better.
Network Within The Industry
“Nowadays, hiring managers and recruiters are taking to networking sites to find candidates,” said Amelie Elliott, HR manager at State of Writing and Studentwritingservices. “However, not everyone sees this as an opportunity to get noticed in an industry, especially in supply chain.
Surprisingly, networking sites will have career opportunities posted; and they’ll even hook you up with recruiters, representatives, etc. Whether you’re new to Supply Chain or an industry veteran, you’ll be able to keep in touch with colleagues, mentors, etc.”
Is Supply Chain Right For You?
Now that you’ve made the necessary gains and changes to the resume, and have spoken to the right people, you might ask yourself: “Is this industry right for me?” When making your final decision, you might consider how much commitment to put into the work, the salary rate, job interest, and the amount of potential that the Supply Chain job has.
In other words, do you see yourself working in this industry in five or ten years? Reflecting on these factors will help decide whether or not supply chain is your ideal industry.
Supply Chain Jobs in Conclusion
Whether you’re considering supply chain for the first time, or have worked hard in your training and want to move forward into a career, the supply chain industry is always evolving, and always welcoming new people. Ultimately, this industry, like many other high-demand industries, is driven by possibilities.
Molly Crockett blogs for both Topcanadianwriters.com and Writemyaustralia.com. As a career blogger, she shares her latest personal development ideas by contributing articles to online magazines. She also blogs for Revieweal.com online writing service.