Supply chains around the world faced turbulence and disruption during the pandemic, before showing signs of recovery in the recent months. However, recruiting challenges remain a lingering issue as companies cope with a competitive workforce, which means it has become increasingly important for companies to broaden their talent pool by diversifying their candidates across nations. Â
Read on to explore the top trends to consider when hiring candidates for logistic roles.
Continuous Demand for Emerging Tech-related Skills
The rapid technological advancements in the supply chain sector make it increasingly important for new hires to be thoroughly equipped with the knowledge to handle the integration and use of automated solutions.
Sought-after skills to consider in new logistics hires include proficiencies in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics, which have streamlined various aspects of supply chains including inventory management and supply chain visibility. Accessibility to these cost-effective skills within the workforce enables logistics teams to boost overall functionalities and profits.Â
These demands for advanced technological skills in the hiring process have proven to be a major difference-maker for many companies. Market surveys show that 45.1% of businesses consider automation a vital process in the supply chain management sector. The ongoing automated tech trends could also lead to a greater emphasis on data management capabilities among hires, necessary for driving the most impactful supply chain decisions.Â
The Rise of India as a Supply Chain Hub
Supply chain shifts from China have seen new potential partnerships and workforce from India and parts of Southeast Asia. Companies may find a range of valuable hiring and recruitment opportunities in these areas.
Particularly,  recent India and US talks have led to large-scale investments in India’s factories and workforce, which involved industry leaders such as Apple and Amazon. These collaborations could open more doors for India’s supply chain talent, in line with the Biden administration’s Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), which plans on expanding trusted global supplier chains.Â
As such, a larger number of International companies may be keeping a close watch on India’s supply chain infrastructure and progress in planning for long-term recruitment strategies in the upcoming months.
Added Focus on Circular Supply Chain Expertise
Large-scale supply chain disruptions have led logistic companies toward the concept of circularity and the creation of highly sustainable processes. An increasing number of companies may be seeking hires experienced in circular economy strategies that contribute to the long-term resilience of supply chains.
Employers may seek practical skills in candidates that contribute to the three tenets of supply chain resilience, including waste removal strategies, the extended usage of raw materials, and positive practices in returning materials to the environment. As such, logistics companies may invest more resources in hiring and training candidates experienced in green logistics management. Green logistics practices help advance a company’s environmental conservation goals while providing teams with the required alternative energy to drive daily operations and customer demands. Â
The Need To Prioritize Respect at Work
A recent Gartner survey revealed that 85% of frontline supply chain employees emphasized the importance of employers recognizing them as people/individuals rather than employees. Respect and recognition of employee contributions remain integral in driving Employee value proposition (EVP). EVP is an important metric among the workforce and determines the amount of value that employees derive from their roles and positions.Â
Logistics companies that show greater respect for their workers can help drive productivity and collaboration among teams and boost employee satisfaction. As such, these communication measures can reduce turnover rates and attrition, which is highly strategic in the competitive job market.
Decision-makers may prioritize the hiring of candidates versed in ethical sourcing. Doing so can help establish a company-wide culture of respect, fulfilling top ethical standards in safeguarding the environment and workers in the entirety of the supply chain.Â
Closing Thoughts – Hiring For Logistics Roles With Success
Sustainability, the rise of tech, and the expansion into new global markets seem set to change the global supply chain landscape into 2023. Companies that can effectively tap into these areas can stay ahead of the curve as the industry moves toward a full recovery and perhaps go beyond, fueled by the exciting prospects of newfound tools, partnerships, and collaborations.