BiS Henderson believe that when recruiting for positions within the supply chain, defining the essential skill sets is of key importance, identifying the same high level of experience and professionalism demanded within sectors. Candidates must also be able to show interest, enthusiasm and full commitment to your company’s mission statement and the specific area served.
When passing on supply chain job interview tips to clients, Bis Henderson’s specialist recruiters recommend that the interviewer should always evaluate whether strong inter-personal skills are evident, as the function of the supply chain is not to sell a product but to provide a service.
The ability to communicate well is therefore essential. Candidates must be able to show that they are quick and independent thinkers and will be able to rise to the daily challenges that often occur within the supply chain. At the same time, they should display qualities needed to operate within a team as part of the wider organisation.
Interview questions should be structured to evaluate how the candidate’s strengths will benefit the role and also any weaknesses that may flag up an inability to achieve the required targets.
The STAR principle; Situation, Task, Action, Result can be extremely helpful in determining how well they have handled challenges in past employment. It’s essential to ensure that the applicant is not only competent, but is also a good culture and personality fit within the organisation.
The interviewer should be able to see that the candidate has researched the clients company well, with a full understanding of the background history, what has been achieved to date and what is hoped to be achieved in the future.
- Does the candidate appreciate what the position entails?
- Are they able to explain how they believe they can contribute to growth potential?
- How do they intend to take the necessary initiative to achieve these aims?
The interview shouldn’t be purely about qualifications, but must also determine self-motivation, attitude and professionalism. Logistics and supply chain sector jobs call for dedication and the passion to develop the role in the long-term.
The candidate should also possess the natural ability to earn respect and this together with evidence of a genuine interest in the aims of the client’s company should shine through.
Bis Henderson appreciate just how important it is to find the right person for your organisation and that the interview is very much a two-way process.
