How to Ace Your Supply Chain Interview

by Aileen Laqui

As the world eases into the new norm and fully embraces globalization and digitization, we can expect to see more and more supply chain job openings soon. If you are a talent hoping to make a career out of your passion for supply chain management, now is undoubtedly the time to bring your A-game when you get scheduled for an interview. Check out our quick guide below on how to ace your supply chain interview to boost your competitive edge.

SCM interviews: A Quick Overview

Working in supply chain management can be quite demanding. But it is fun, fast-paced, and nothing short of challenges. If you want to succeed in an interview and make an impression, you will need to demonstrate that you can:

Work dynamically
Collaborate cross-functionally
Establish positive relationships with suppliers, partners, and other stakeholders

The best way you can outline these skills and show that you are a good fit for a position starts with creating an excellent SCM resume. When done right, your supply chain management CV can help you land an interview, where you can apply the tips we listed below:

Creating an Elevator Pitch

An elevator pitch helps you highlight the value you can provide to your desired employer. It should be concise and provides a clear overview of what you can do as a supply chain professional. You can include details such as:

The primary responsibilities and achievements both in your previous and current roles
The scale of the projects you worked on
Any specialized skill you can bring to the table

Interview Preparation

It is imperative to come prepared for an interview.

If you have a virtual interview, we highly recommend checking your internet connection and the device you will use. Familiarize yourself with the apps that the company wants to use during the call, such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams.

Research about the company. Read through the job description and note the specific skills you have that match their needs. Checking your interviewer on LinkedIn will also come in handy as it helps you gauge what to expect during the call.

Keeping your Answers Brief

Make a list of the common questions that a hiring manager might ask so you can prepare how to respond. As much as possible, aim to provide concrete and straight-to-the-point answers.

Also, be sure to keep your answers short and quick when responding to factual questions such as “where did you complete your MBA?” or “How long did you work for your previous company?”

As for detailed or complex interview questions, focus on your actual experience by giving concrete examples, rather than responding theoretically.

Asking the Right Questions

Asking relevant questions shows your sincere interest in the position and the company. It also helps you evaluate whether the organisation is also a good fit for you. You can focus on:

Key performance indicators (KPIs) for the role, if not included in the job description
Most complex or challenging aspects of the position
Career progression or professional development opportunities provided by the company

Making a Good Impression

Whether you are attending a physical or virtual interview, it is always important to dress the part. Pay attention to the company’s dress code. Also, if you are doing a virtual interview, be sure to carry it out in a clean and clutter-free space. There should not be any sort of distractions in the background like noise or people walking by.

Building your Rapport

Likeability is a double-edged sword in the SCM business. By learning how to wield it properly, you can take full advantage of its benefits, like building positive relationships with partners and cross-functional team members. The same rule applies to SCM interviews.

While skills can indeed increase one’s preference over the other applicant, likeability can also play a part in team dynamics. As a result, besides highlighting your achievements, you also need to establish a connection with the interviewer.

You can do this by simply arriving on time for the schedule, maintaining your composure, and exemplifying sincerity during the meeting. Listening intently and asking the right questions when needed can also give you an edge in the crowd.

Providing concrete examples when discussing your skills or accomplishments

Besides your CV, the interview gives you the best opportunity to seal the deal by showcasing your background and skills in supply chain.

To succeed, you will need to pick the most relevant accomplishments and skills to share. Include specific details like the scope of the project, the size of the team you handled or led, essential data about a campaign, and the key results of your efforts.

The Supply Advisory can Help You With Your Supply Chain Job Hunting Journey

Whether you are interested in pursuing a career in supply chain, logistics or procurement, you can expect to see more job openings in the near future. If you are ready to start your recruitment journey for an SCM position here in APAC, we can help.

Work with our executive recruitment specialists at the Supply Advisory so you can find a position that matches your skills and proficiencies. Contact us today for more information, or check out our SCM recruitment page for the latest job openings in the region.

Aileen Apuntar-Laqui is the Director – Operations & Research at The Supply Advisory (a division of Datasearch Consulting), a leading executive recruitment firm specialising in Procurement & Supply Chain.

You can view the The Supply Advisory website or contact them directly at info@supplyadvisory.com for a more detailed discussion.