With so many myths surrounding the logistics jobs, we thought we’re going to chat about some of the common misconceptions. Working in this sector is fast-paced and extremely lively, but that’s not to say you have to fit with that flow. You can find your own niche. Plus, chances are, you won’t feel the effects of the recession quite as sharply as you would working in many of the other industries, which are declining.

Busting the logistics jobs myths

The logistics jobs sector can take you anywhere in the world. As long as people require manufactured goods to be sent across continents or countries, this industry will offer the world job opportunities. It is lucrative and there is room for anyone with any background, from creatives to managers and drivers. There are naturally, a number of misconceptions about career opportunities in the logistics jobs sector. Here are some of the common myths – today, we’re busting them!

 

Myth #1: It’s difficult to land great logistics jobs opportunities

In times of economic recession, it’s difficult to find employment in any sector. In the logistics jobs industry, however, this is not due to economic challenges, but rather because of the sheer competition in the industry. To bust this myth, the trajectory of the current industry is predicted to increase by 7% by the year 2026, meaning there will be more jobs than demand for these services increase.

If you are trying to break into the industry, you can set yourself apart by doing a relevant course. Attend seminars and workshops to entrench yourself fully. This will also help to keep you updated on the latest trends within the logistics industry. When you have an interview, you want to sound passionate and well-acquainted with this line of work.

Myth #2: Once you establish yourself in logistics, you can’t change careers

We love busting this myth! The soft skills you acquire working in the logistics jobs field are relevant to every other job you may ever encounter. Time management, customer care, coming up with creative ways to problem-solve with almost no resources and even less time. Those who have worked in logistics, successfully, have mastered these skills to a degree that makes it an art form.

Alongside this, the education background you have to work in logistics overlaps with the skills needed to work at airports, in postal departments, manufacturing companies, as well as shipping and freight.

Myth #3: Logistics jobs holds no opportunities for those with specialised degrees

Every sector in business requires specially qualified individuals. As creative or alternative as a business may be, there are financials to be managed. The same goes for the logistics sector. Business degrees are welcomed into the management teams. Accounting degrees are needed to manage the books, and so on.

Myth #4: Working in the logistics industry keeps you on your feet all day

This is also a commonly believed myth. There are many incidences where this is true, but it depends on your role within the industry. There are many desk-bound jobs available – as mentioned in the previous point – if you are in charge of finances or admin, you would be desk-bound.

Breaking into this industry successfully is about identifying your key strengths and the way in which you work best. You can then select a role that complements those elements. Here are some of the most common but very industry-specific roles:

• Supply chain design and planning
• Procurement and supply management
• Freight transportation
• Warehouse design and management
• Distribution network design and planning
• Inventory management and control

Myth #5: There are no opportunities to advance into

There is a place for everyone within the logistics sector. You may come in as a junior, but each department has their managers. If you have reached a ceiling within your department, you can be promoted to other departments with a whole new class of management. To quote Forbes Magazine: “the logistics industry values people of all qualification levels, from truck drivers to operations managers and everything in between. Whether you’re a high school dropout or a bonafide academic, there are positions and opportunities for growth for all.”

Working in the logistics industry

If you are thinking of working in logistics, it is important to familiarise yourself with the industry. This will ensure you sound like you know what you are talking about when you have your interview, while it provides you true insight into the lifestyle and work environment you are committing to. It’s fast-paced and you have to think on your feet. If you are looking for a new career opportunity, visit our careers page and get in touch with us.