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How To Start a Career in Logistics

Posted by [email protected] on Aug. 29, 2019  /  Subscribe 0

What To Know About Logistics

Whether you’re interested in becoming a supply chain manager, project manager, or logistics manager, knowing how to start a career in logistics in a supply chain starts with research. Logistics plays a key role in the economy. By the most simple definition, the logistics industry is responsible for the transportation of goods. As a society, we rely on the speedy and accurate transportation of these goods. For example, $103.8 billion worth of truck freight was transported between the US & Mexico/Canada from June 2018 to June 2019 according to bts.gov (US Bureau of Transportation Statistics). As one would expect, working in the career field of this billion-dollar industry has the potential to pay very well.

Beginning the Job Search

Your search for a logistics job begins online with social media sites like LinkedIn, or recruiting sites like ZipRecruiter and Indeed. Some jobs may even post on Craigslist, although most jobs found on Craigslist tend to be temporary positions. When on the search for your first logistics job, you will want to look for entry-level jobs. Positions that require 3-5 years of experience or more will typically be higher-paying, but out of reach for someone just starting out.

Most logistics jobs will involve a management position, such as a logistics manager or operations manager. The highest paying logistics jobs are usually managerial, so you may want to apply for a job listing that hires managers. If you are serious about starting a career in logistics, research is key. Informative blogs about supply chain management will help you understand what to expect from a logistics job and better prepare you for interviews and resume building.

Resume and Interview Tips for a Logistics Job

Before you can even land an interview, you need a stand-out resume that’s going to make an employer take notice of your skills. While most entry-level resumes are going to look quite similar, one way you can stand out from the rest is with a personalized cover letter. When writing a cover letter, avoid using generic language. You want the employer to know that you took the time to write this letter specifically for them. The least impressive cover letter is one that is copied and pasted from other job applications that you have done. Another cover letting writing tip is to avoid talking about what this job can do for you. Rather, show the employer what you can bring to the table to improve their company.

If you land an interview, congratulations! Getting an interview proves that your resume is doing its job. However, having the skills for a job on paper means nothing if you do not have the communication skills that most logistics companies will be looking for. The best thing to do is to remain calm and confident. While a bit of nervousness is expected and normal during a job interview, an overly anxious candidate may show an interviewer that you would not be capable of handling the stresses of the job.

One way to remain relaxed during an interview is to view it less as a make-or-break situation but as a learning experience. If this is one of your first interviews, you are gaining valuable insight into the kinds of questions that are asked and the interview process as a whole. Remember that there will be plenty of opportunities in the future for more interviews. This will not be your last one!

Working Your Way Up To Supply Chain Management

Before you can begin your job search, you need experience that can show employers you are capable of working in the logistics field. One way to show this experience is through internships, which can be found through the same websites that you can find regular job listings. The best part about internships is the potential for them to turn into full-time jobs. However, even if your internship doesn’t turn into a permanent position, your new connections are sure to put in a good word for you when you go to apply elsewhere.

Another way to show employers your commitment to learning about logistics and the supply chain process is by obtaining a bachelor's degree in logistics and supply chain management. You may also obtain a business-related degree paired with certification to show your interest in the field. Obtaining an APICS certification will show that you have specific skills and knowledge required to ensure that things would be running smoothly if you were hired. 

Start a Career with APICS Certification

Now that you have an idea of how to start a career in logistics, get a leg up on the competition by obtaining an APICS certification. Choose from one of three main certifications: CPIM, CSCP, or CLTD. 

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