You know that moment when you feel like the whole world is revolving around your head. Not like you are having a headache. Just that everything around you seems to be demanding your attention at the same time. That is the life!
Whilst no job is easy, the role of a Procurement/ Supply Chain Manager can be quite tasking and demanding.
Don't worry, you won't lose your cool and even when you do, you'll be just fine🤷♀️
So looking back, I wish I knew some critical things early on. That knowledge would have made me better prepared to wade through the role successfully…
Here they are:
Unpredictability: So, no one told me to expect unpredictable outcomes despite having solid plans in place. I mean, "Why do we have to be running up and down when we've done our job?" But then, this is Procurement we are talking about here and you have to learn to expect surprises. As matter of fact, get used to embracing surprises...😊 and working through them!
People Skills: I also didn't figure out quite early that Supply Chain Management is not just about the technical expertise but the people relations skills you are able to develop. Trust me, work becomes easier when you're able to collaborate, handle conflict, listen for feedback, delegate, and so on.
Knowledge: There is the other vital part of constantly increasing knowledge of the category(ies) you handle; knowing something about everything, no matter how little. This will help you better understand your customers' needs and can certainly go a long way in handling the everyday hiccups and challenges at work.
Network Guru: As a Procurement/ Supply Chain Manager, knowing how to network can play a huge role too. There are times when you are in the midst of an emergency and just one call to the right contact will save the mess that is about to happen. Network internally in your organization and externally across your supply chain.
So, I can go on and on but here's the thing: the life of a Procurement/ Supply Chain Manager comes with twists and turns but it's also exciting too.
Well, I know this because I enjoy the thrill that comes with operations going on smoothly; all hands on deck, successful project deliveries, vendors meeting deadlines, and even exceeding expectations too.
Trust me, nothing is more fulfilling than seeing results for the hard work you put in, and I try to enjoy those moments as much as possible.
And, just like we say in our local parlance, 'we'll be alright las las'
Need help developing RFPs and scoring criteria, bidding, or conducting bid evaluations?
Simply visit Efemini Academy to explore our range of online procurement courses. And begin your journey to becoming a Procurement Expert!
'we'll be alright las las' means at the end, we'll be just fine.
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