Why You Need These 5 Rockstar Skills to Work in Logistics

Why You Need These 5 Rockstar Skills to Work in Logistics

With an estimated number of job openings expected to grow at 25.5% through 2020, choosing a career in logistics is a no-brainer. The industry is anticipated to grow twice the national average and has ample room for advancement.

Because logistics has numerous tiers and multiple facets, once employed, you’ll find there’s never a dull moment. Though, it’s important to keep in mind the high-pressure that comes along with this type of career. These 5 skills are critical for those working in logistics, and here’s why:

1. Foresight
Numerous logistics careers require employees to have foresight. Whether you’re in charge of warehouse inventory or you’re driving goods across the country, being able to predict future conditions comes in handy.

Ex: As a Supply Chain Analyst, you’re responsible for inventory. Knowing when to order more products and when to replenish stock is essential to your success.

2. Organization
Like most jobs, being organized in the logistics industry can be a huge lifesaver. No matter if you’re a shipper or freight forwarder, having documentation in-check can make for smooth sailing.

Ex: As a Freight Broker, your job is to help companies and individuals move shipments more efficiently. Having set processes for arranging and tracking transport will keep your employer happy and your stress level low.

3. Patience
Not everything works out as planned, so having patience in a stressful moment can help you maintain a clear head while solving the problem. In logistics, you always have to be prepared for something to not go as planned.

Ex: As a Freight Forwarder, your supervisor might start asking you to ship things in a more cost-effective manner. This could mean combining packages within a single shipment (all with different routes and end destinations): packages that require multiple forms of transport, including air, sea, and land. Stressed yet? If not, this could be the perfect career for you. It’s easy to see why patience is needed.

4. Adaptability
In any career, being able to adapt is essential. In logistics, you’ll need to be able to adapt on the fly. Because you’re relying on weather, seasonality in buying, etc., every priority can shift at the drop of a hat.

Ex: As a motor carrier or transporter, the biggest variables are weather and construction. If either turns unfavorable, you’ll need to quickly adapt to meet your delivery timeline. Being flexible is an asset.

5. Follow-through
The most essential skill for someone working in logistics is having the ability to see projects through to the bitter end. While organization can help you track the progress of your endeavors, actually completing things and following-up with each avenue of the supply chain is critical. You don’t want to be the reason the ball was dropped.

Ex: As a Shipper, you’re responsible for getting inventory or product to where it needs to go. Simply sending a pallet off and hoping for the best isn’t good enough. Weather, customs, and a million other variables could prevent your shipment from getting where it needs to go. Following up on projects is essential.

A starting position within logistics usually requires no more than a High School Diploma, though specialized training can help you accelerate your growth within a company more quickly. Learn more about Purchasing and Supply Chain Management with Freight Broker/Agent Training, to see some training options available to you.

Did you know? Logistics careers are ideal for those with military experience. Many aspects of the job are essential to military operations, and it’s likely that you already have the skills needed to excel. Learn more about how we work with military students.