Hey everybody, my name is Justin Mitchum and I’m a senior in International Management here at Clemson. Once I graduate in December, I hope to get a job working in logistics. Supply Chain Management is something I’m extremely interested in pursuing. More specifically, I’d like to work for a Third-Party logistics provider. I think one interesting thing about me is that I helped build a 4,000sq/ft house in the spring and summer of 2009.
I think the biggest communication problems in working in global logistics are the language barrier as well as cultural differences. Face-to-face meetings and constant phone and email contact are vital to keeping relationships constant in an ever-changing environment. There are change orders and software issues on a daily basis, which make constant communication a must.
To communicate successfully in this field you need to be able to keep multiple lines of communication open with all suppliers, distributors, and customers. It’s important to have a formal line of communication in case of a disruption or general change in the supply chain. In order to deal with these issues, supply chain managers need to have great communication skills. More specifically, SCM’s need to be able to handle multiple relationships without a drop off in attention or service quality. There’s a lot of “crisis-management” involved with SCM, and being able to effectively handle the workload while achieving high service levels is vital.
With the major communication problem being language barriers and cultural issues, would it be a good idea for someone in your major to study abroad, or at least travel, and learn another language?
ReplyDeleteIt's definitely a good idea to both travel and learn new languages. Most Global Supply Chain Managers either pursue an IMBA (International Masters of Business Administration), or spend considerable time training in the countries in which they'll be doing business. Personally, I'd prefer USC's IMBA in Asiatic countries. It's one of the few programs where you don't need previous work experience to begin the program. Part of your curriculum involves spending considerable time abroad, as well as learning the languages and customs of the country you choose.
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