Top 6 things employers are seeking in 2022

Whether you are looking for your first role in procurement and supply chain or want to take the next step on the career ladder, it’s vital that your resume makes a great first impression. But once you have wowed the recruiter with your opening statement you need to keep them interested by showing you have the top skills they need to grow their business and keep their clients and supply chain happy. 

The top requirements that recruiters and businesses are looking for will change over time. Technologies advance and business needs evolve. To continue to be successful in our dynamic sector you need to keep your finger on the pulse. 

This short article will cover the top things that employers in US procurement and supply chain companies are looking for in 2022. We’ve segmented it into technical (or hard skills) and soft skills. So, grab a refreshing drink of your choice, and let’s begin. 

Technical skills employers are looking for in 2022

Network and cyber security

You don’t need to be an expert in this area. It is a very specialized field and firms are likely to have a whole team working in this area. But if you work in an IT-related field it is a good idea to be able to demonstrate knowledge of network and cyber security. Cyberattacks are sadly becoming more and more common and businesses need every member of the team to be vigilant.   

Big data

Companies are dealing with enormous amounts of both customer and business data and urgently need data specialists who can manage and make sense of it. For example, for ensuring the company has end-to-end visibility of the supply chain. 

As with network security, this doesn’t need to be your specific area of expertise but having a good grasp of the activities and processes involved will serve you well in the recruitment process. 

Cloud computing

Cloud computing skills are more in demand than ever. This is a broad field but knowledge of the cloud service platform (CSP) marketplace will be a good addition to your resume, as will knowledge of APIs, machine learning and AI and Cloud security. There are some excellent online courses available for those who need to brush up on their skills or for complete beginners too. 

Soft skills employers are looking for in 2022

The ability to get the best out of people

This is more relevant for procurement and supply chain professionals that are aiming at management or supervisory roles. The ability to inspire, motivate and get the very best out of a team or even your clients and supply chain is a huge draw for business leaders and recruiters. Alongside making sure the company runs smoothly it shows that you are empathetic and that you are a good communicator and collaborator. These are all essential skills in the procurement and supply chain sector. 

Commitment to workplace wellbeing

It’s not just business leaders that are responsible for a happy and healthy workplace. If the pandemic has taught us anything is that we all need to support each other when it comes to promoting good mental health and wellbeing. This isn’t an easy thing to show on your resume but if you are lucky to make it through to the interview stage then it is well worth mentioning if the right context comes up. 

Flexibility

Another lesson learned from the pandemic is that flexibility is absolutely paramount in today’s rather unsettled political and economic landscape. You could include a sentence or two in your cover letter describing a situation where you have been quick and willing to adapt to a rapidly changing situation. Or you could talk about it as an attribute you both value and possess in your interview. 

We hope these tips on the top six things that employers are looking for in 2022 have been useful and have given you some food for thought as you continue your quest to find the procurement and supply chain job of your dreams. 

Alongside having the skills that recruiters need, it’s also vital to have visibility of the best US procurement and supply chain roles out there. At Bramwith we work with some of the most exciting brands right across the United States. Contact us today to find out how we can help you land that perfect role.