You’ve repeatedly searched the internet for logistics jobs, read up on job descriptions, and done extensive research on everything involved in a supply chain management career. For those who are aware of what it entails, supply chain management (SCM) can be a very alluring career path. One reason is that it’s difficult to conceive how businesses would run today without it. Another reason is that the work’s puzzle-like, problem-solving nature can be a mentally stimulating challenge that becomes addictive.
However, reading job descriptions created by businesses and recruiters won’t actually provide you a glimpse into the day-to-day activities of a supply chain management specialist. To feel confident in your selection, you need have inside knowledge of the specifics before beginning any career.
Ten things you should know about supply chain management careers
1. The workday of a supply chain manager is never dull.
You could have worked at jobs where you felt that the days dragged on and you couldn’t wait for the shift to end. But every day will be unpredictable with a profession in supply chain management. You will never feel bored.
2. The job involves much more than just transporting and storing items.
As products or components go from a supplier to a manufacturer to a wholesaler to a retailer to a customer, supply chain management experts keep track of resources, data, and cash. However, they can differ significantly based on your organisation and industry. Even if that more simplistic picture may have been true a few decades ago, it can be shocking to realise that the moving and storage of items is only one aspect of what the vocation comprises. Pursuing any of the available Logistics and Supply Chain Management Courses in Kerala will help you to know more about the work you are supposed to expect.
3. Data-driven supply chain management
Since the supply chain involves a lot of data, it’s critical to quickly draw conclusions from voluminous data. The information load is enormous because the majority of organisations operate with thousands (or tens of thousands) of distinct items. When you need to use this information to provide answers, it can be intimidating. Agile and able to swiftly extract and summarise pertinent facts in a timely manner are two qualities you should possess.
4. In order to manage the supply chain, people skills are required.
Being a people person is increasingly important in supply chain management. The methods, best practises, and technology essential to the sector are the main topics of the supply chain management articles you read. However, the truth is that there would be no supply chain without the teams of experts that carry out the procedures, demonstrate the best practises, and manage all that technology. Teamwork, leadership, and, most importantly, customer service skills are required of supply chain managers. SLMT, one of the best Logistics Institutes in Ernakulam gives necessary training in soft skills to empower their candidates.
5. A comprehensive knowledge foundation is essential for professions in supply chain management.
If you think of supply chain management as a series of connect-the-dots where each choice involves a number of complex variables, you might begin to understand why having more information about each dot on the board can be a significant asset.
Do what you can to seek out fresh information and practical skills because having a well-rounded combination of education and experience may be quite helpful when working in a complex profession. You can also benefit from brushing up on your computer science and programming knowledge.
6. Professionals in supply chain management are also in charge of people
With a strong aptitude for the logistical requirements of the position, you might enter the supply chain management field. But at a certain point, having people management skills is just as crucial—if not more so—than having supply chain management skills. Although many people have the technical knowledge necessary to succeed in this industry, the best performers also typically have excellent interpersonal skills.
7. Managing the supply chain under pressure
SCM involves rivalry. A mistake or missing deadline might cost a business several hundred thousand dollars and let a rival in.
The logistics sector is a fast-moving, demanding, and cutthroat one. It’s crucial to arrive at work and give it your all because there are so many other organisations vying for the same customers.
You should constantly be considering what comes next and how you may advance your business. Being passionate about your work is crucial since it will help you develop and learn more quickly.
8. A top priority should be networking
When you take the time to meet and listen to your suppliers, it will pay off in the long run because you will have those relationships to rely on for advice or favours.
Finding a mentor is another suggestion made by Patel, particularly when your career is just getting started. This could be your manager, a coworker, or someone you run into while working in the business. Mentors can be priceless sources of information and can assist you in gaining more experience than you would otherwise.
The secret is to listen and watch. Ask questions and allow those who have successfully followed this career path to guide you along the paved path.
9. An excellent supply chain respects the environment
Supply chain management probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think about jobs that benefit the environment. However, streamlining the supply chain can have a significant positive influence on the environment.
10. There are numerous employment options available.
A broad word, supply chain management encompasses a variety of jobs. A common path involves starting off as an expeditor, progressing to become a buyer, and then climbing the ladder from there. Operations analyst, loading operator, salesperson, production manager, and logistician are further job titles. There are many Shipping Courses in Kerala that will help you get an employed in this industry.