Logistics sector sets the benchmark for new staff

A poll conducted by employment agency Bayt.com in January, has revealed some interesting statistical information about the Middle East job market.

According to the survey, 28.8 per cent of employers in the Middle East look for ‘hunger, drive and ambition’ as the most important factors when hiring an employee, with salary considerations coming in second at 22.7 per cent.

Meanwhile, career track record is reportedly the least important with most employers (67.2 per cent) content to hire a candidate who has relevant skills, but no direct experience in the company’s field.

Whilst the latter is good news for a worker with industry transferable skills, aspiring job seekers from other sectors should not be eyeing opportunities in the logistics sector with the same fervour.

According to logistics recruitment firm SNS (Supply Network Solutions) industry experience is still viewed as the key consideration in hiring new staff.

“Definitely education is considered an important factor of decision. However, given that the need for experienced people that have done this before, companies are focused highly on expertise in the field and previous references,” said Mario Ghosn, general manager of SNS.

“With an awareness of the importance of the supply chain and the impact it has on the company’s performance and overall costs, more and more firms in the region are looking for experienced professionals to improve on their logistics processes,” he added.

The Bayt survey results were interesting in that they further conflicted with an online poll run by Arabian Supply Chain in December, which found that the majority (57 per cent) of respondents would prefer to hire university graduates over those with industry experience.

When respondents were surveyed whether they would hire a new logistics university graduate or promote existing staff, 57 per cent said they would hire a new graduate over those with industry experience (35 per cent). The remainder of those polled remained non committal.

Despite the difference between logistics employer requirements and other employment sectors, there are still the usual key areas which prospective employees must attend no matter which industry they are looking to enter.

“The results of our survey suggest that candidates will be more successful if they take the time to carefully review their resumes before submitting them to any potential employer. It is also worthwhile taking the time to research a company and the position applied for before an interview, as being fully prepared is clearly a key requirement across the region,” said Amer Zureikat, VP Sales at Bayt.com.