Supply chain management is an expanding industry that offers a wide range of career opportunities. If you're a student who's about to start your career in this field, here are five tips to help you get on the right track.
Gain hands-on experience
While a university education can provide a strong foundation in the theory of supply chain management, there's no substitute for real-world experience. Keep looking for opportunities to get as practical knowledge as possible. For example, choose courses that provide immersive teaching methods like working on real company projects or use business simulations. Additionally, check possibilities of internships, or other hands-on experiences that will help you build your skills and gain practical knowledge.
Build your network
Networking is critical in any field, but it's particularly important in supply chain management. Start building your professional network as soon as possible. There are many ways of enlarging your professional network. You can start with attending events, reaching out to industry professionals, and connecting with alumni in your field.
Stay up-to-date
Technology is changing our world at an unprecedented pace, and supply chain management is not an exception. The Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming the field. So, it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments already during your education. ttending industry conferences, subscribing to relevant publications, and seeking out opportunities to learn from industry experts may significantly benefit you when you start to build your career.
Study well
This might sound very obvious, but yet it is very important. Take the best out of your education and use every opportunity to gain more field-related knowledge. Supply chain management professionals need a wide range of skills, including data analysis, project management, and interpersonal skills. Focusing on developing your skills in these areas and being able to put them into practice is the key to a successful career.
Participate in mentorship program
A mentor can provide valuable guidance and support as you start your career in supply chain management. Mentorship programs are often organized by NGOs, governmental organizations, and universities to support students’ career development. Seek out a mentor who has experience in the field and is willing to share their knowledge and insights with you.
Starting a career in supply chain management can be exciting and challenging, but with the right preparation, you can set yourself up for success. By gaining hands-on experience, networking, staying up-to-date, developing your skills, and finding a mentor, you'll be well on your way to a rewarding career in supply chain management.
This text was created by the RealGame Business Simulation team.
RealGame is a Finnish business simulation provider. RealGame creates simulations based on decades of experience and latest academic research. Business simulations by RealGame are created by educators for educators with a purpose of providing hands-on experiences and an understanding of how supply chain operations evolve continuously, hour by hour. RealGame is unique in that it has a clock-driven operational mode, which allows for generating transaction-specific data for business analysis and strategic planning.
Please cite this as:
RealGame (2023). 5 Tips for Students Starting a Career in Supply Chain Management, Realgame.fi. Retrieved [Date], from https://www.realgame.fi/