Future is bright for job seekers
By Lisa van der Pool -- Purchasing, 9/16/1999
The positive hiring trend will stay hot as the weather begins to cool off again this fall. Hiring will continue at its steady pace, with employers placing emphasis on strategic skills and commodity knowledge as well as plain business sense."The economic outlook for the next six months is bright," says Brian Hayes, placement consultant for Protech Nationwide Staffing in New York City.
"Everything from different companies to reports from purchasing managers points to continued economic strength and continued hiring activity," says Cindy Hicks, director of purchasing placement for Fortune Personnel Consultants of Sarasota.
The middle road
Hiring professionals are citing the middle level as the most active job level. "All levels are active--but most companies are looking for seasoned people with about 5-10 years of experience and with a proven track record," says Hicks. "They've been promoted at their previous job and consequently are bringing something else to the table."
"There are simply more jobs at the middle level," says Hayes.
But these days, getting promoted requires more than just putting in a certain amount of time. Companies are looking for candidates who stand out from the many other applicants who are looking for jobs. Though there is a large quantity of jobs out there, companies have specific ideas of the skills they seek in a purchasing professional. Candidates should hone many different types of skills and consider getting a higher degree if it will lend a hand in their particular industry.
What are some skills that are the most sought after? According to Hayes: "A C.P.M. certification or someone who is going for their C.P.M.0 is almost a prerequisite. A four-year degree is a must, as are sourcing and negotiating skills. An MBA at a director level can be preferred or required." Engineering degrees are also becoming quite common among purchasers.
Other qualities that will make a good candidate great, says Hicks, are: "a history of accomplishments is great--a good business sense and an understanding of the role of purchasing in the entire organization is essential. Strategic skills, commodity knowledge and expertise and outsourcing skills are also highly valued by employers."
The future is now
Candidates should keep in mind that companies see purchasing departments differently now. They no longer view purchasing as a separate entity, but they realize it affects the company's bottom line. Therefore job seekers must have cutting-edge skills that fit with the modern outlook on purchasing.
"Companies know that purchasing is an integral part of the whole process," says Hicks. "Purchasing is in its hey day now."
Hicks goes on, "Candidates should be doing everything they can to enhance their skills and continue their educations."
Exciting locations
Recruiters say the hot job market is widespread and not limited to specific locations. "The whole country is experiencing a general health right now," says Hicks. "Everywhere companies are doing well: the Midwest, the Southeast, and the West Coast."
Among industries that are most actively hiring, Hayes and Hicks cite electronics, telecommunications, and pharmaceuticals. Hiring also is strong in consumer goods.
Hiring professionals also mention the East Coast as an area that is beginning to grow. "Boston is back," says Hicks.
"New York and New Jersey are doing well. There is a propensity of manufacturers in New Jersey and parts of Connecticut," says Hayes.
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