Logistics managers have the important role of ensuring things go smoothly no matter what. A logistics manager has responsibilities that may vary from one company to another. As logistics industry is ever evolving industry, you as a logistics manager must ensure that your company’s supply chain is running in the most efficient way. To develop a good career in logistics, we rounded up some top skills that you must work on.
1. Forward Thinking
For the role of a logistics manager, you need to develop the ability to make accurate predictions of the possible needs of your company, also as outcomes of actions made anywhere in the entire supply chain. Such talent will allow you to act faster, see risks that may arise, and develop contingency plans for issues that may or may not arise.
2. Strong Numerical and Analytical Skills
A good logistics manager does not necessarily have to be a graduate of a mathematics or statistics degree, although it can be an additional advantage. As long as you know how to read and analyze data, and make interpretations that are helpful to the company, you will make a fine career in logistics.
3. Vast Industry Knowledge
Equipping yourself with information on the most recent happenings and trends in the supply chain is necessary to being an efficient logistic manager. A good start for a logistics manager’s education is taking a glance at the LTL freight category and understanding how a category is decided. Freight category determines LTL pricing. Also do research on other companies’ processes, and benchmark on their best supply chain practices.
4. Team player
Being a good logistics manager is acknowledging that the success of each side of the supply chain is a group effort. When it comes to working with other teams or units in the supply chain, it pays to treat everyone with equal respect and professionalism.
5. Focus on detail
The supply chain has numerous levels and components. As such, logistics managers have many responsibilities on their plate. As in most jobs, being organized and paying attention to each and every detail in your work is a must.
6. Sound Decision-making
A logistics manager like you must be able to make sound decisions and do it quickly. Although there will always be unforeseen situations when in the supply chain industry, being as prepared as possible can help you make better decisions.
7. Adaptable To Change
No matter however early you complete your planning, ready all the paperwork, and finalized all the details of your transactions, unexpected situations can arise anytime. Issues and last-minute changes are almost totally unavoidable in a logistics manager’s everyday life, so always be quick on your feet to welcome new change and make the required adjustments.
8. Good Interpersonal Skills
As the role of a logistics manager requires you to deal with people from all walks of life—from workers and bosses to suppliers and clients, you need to make good communication with everyone you transact with. There is zero room for miscommunication both in the face-to-face and written form in the logistics industry.