Today’s job market is a mixture of technical skills and management-centered capability. The common misconception is jobs are available only to the college graduates or those who have had technical schooling. But the reality is, there are a number of industries that are looking for quality individuals who are looking for a fresh start in an industry they know very little about. Companies are willing to train and guide new hires. All they want to see is willingness to learn.
Take the logistics industry for example. Not a lot of people are lining up and knocking on the logistics industry’s door because some people don’t see the potential in getting logistics jobs.
What is logistics?
Logistics is a business discipline that deals with finding ways and means of getting goods and services from provider or manufacturer to customers. This is the supply chain, and it’s up to the logistics professional to find out the best way to manage it. Some of the essential skills needed in successful supply chain operations are computer competency, communication, effective storage & warehouse management, etc.
But the bottom line in any job is the salary. The average salary for a job in logistics, which could be as transportation officer, storage manager, and distribution specialist, among others, ranged from $47,800 to $135,60. The logistics industry has a host of job openings for candidates who are willing to learn. So what are the qualities staffing companies are looking for in those wanting to start a career in logistics?
Planning and organizational skill. Foresight needs to come to the fore if you want to be successful in logistics. This entails the effective planning of what needs to be done, and the proper coordination and involvement of key personnel. It is crucial that you are able to determine the step-by-step sequence of events needed to fulfill both short-term and long-term goals.
Focus on customers. In any service-oriented industry, customer is king; you must have a commitment to service that results in satisfaction for customers both internal and external.
Able to solve problems. In supply chain, problems arrive on a daily basis. You must be able to take them on headlong, using planning and logic to resolve them.
Conflict management and resolution. Arising from challenges from any of the factors affecting the supply chain is conflict between and among its many stakeholders. You must have the ability to manage conflict and resolve them in a manner that is fair, sensible and efficient.
Collaborative and teamwork-oriented. Like a conductor in the supply chain orchestra, you must be able to be part of a multi-functional team, to be a team-player and team-leader both at the same time. You must be able to demonstrate a willingness to achieve the business goals that have been set.
A head for technology. Information technology aptitude is vital in supply chain solutions. You must have the ability to apply specialized knowledge and skills relative to information technology and arrive at responsive and effective logistics solutions.
Relationship management. Establishing relationship is another crucial element in providing supply chain solutions among all stakeholders: colleagues, customers and third-party suppliers.
Accountability. The logistics professional must take ownership of his or her responsibilities, whether in success or failure.
Focused on results. Drive and perseverance to achieve and even surpass targets must be apparent in the logistics professional. While current systems may work, the search for better, more efficient methods of delivery and achieving targets by improving logistics processes must be second nature.
Innovation. The logistics professional must be bold to accept and apply new solutions, and continuously seek to improve systems, processes and services.
There is huge potential for anyone willing to show interest in learning all there is to learn in the logistics industry. At its current trend, the opportunity for growth both career-wise and economically is not showing signs of slowing down.