🎓 Fresh Out of School? Here’s How to Thrive in Procurement 🎓

Starting your career in procurement might feel overwhelming, but today’s landscape offers incredible opportunities for young professionals. Unlike in the past, labor shortages are creating a wealth of openings across industries. But I know it can still feel daunting when you’re just getting started.

One thing hasn’t changed much over the years—most people, fresh out of school, are clueless about procurement, just like I was when I began my career.

Back in 1995, a book called The Machine That Changed the World gave me the context I needed when I first started working at Mercedes-Benz. It helped me understand the world around me and sound credible. But just as important were the experienced colleagues who took the time to share their knowledge. The best advice I received back then? “Read the Financial Times every day.”

So, what’s my advice for today’s new graduates?
1️⃣ Understand your industry: Read the publications that matter in your field, and build rapport with your stakeholders.
2️⃣ Learn from experienced colleagues: Their decades of expertise are invaluable—seek out mentors.
3️⃣ Don’t worry too much about the technicalities right away: You’ll pick up the procurement jargon along the way.

With the right mindset—focused on learning, relationship-building, and curiosity—you’ll set yourself up for success. Procurement may not be the most well-known field, but the opportunities to make a real impact are endless!

I’ll be diving deeper into this topic and more in my new YouTube series on careers in procurement as part of my Procurement in the Park channel. Stay tuned for more insights!

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