The first thing you can do if you're looking for a position as a logistics strategy analyst is to make sure you've got top notch computer skills. Analysts generally need to create slideshow presentations, create spreadsheets, and engage in other computer intensive tasks on a day to day basis. It's important to have a four year bachelor's degree in an appropriate field, as well. Choose a course of study that will work well for your later career. Popular topics include logistics and systems management, marketing, economics, and similar majors. Degrees in unrelated subjects are unlikely to help.
While you're in school, take the time to get practical experience. This can be in the form of part time positions or summer jobs. Get positions in sales, shipping, customer service, inventory or warehouse types of work. These jobs will give you hands on understanding of why logistics is so important, and will expose you to some of the concepts you'll use on a day to day basis as a logistics strategy analyst. Be sure to check out the career center at your school and local job boards to find summer opportunities that might be appropriate for what you'd like to do.
Be sure to get Process Excellence (Six Sigma) certification and training. Six Sigma is just one of a family of process analysis training programs which help you to examine supply chains to find problems and then find out what's wrong and how to correct them. This particular certification might not be required for all positions you'll apply for. However, it's a great way to show your employers that you know what you're doing and that you're dedicated to your career as a logistics strategy analyst. There are also some other, less well known certifications that might help you in this type of career. Do your research and make sure you have what you need to get hired.
Competency in several different kinds of analysis systems is also a must. Two common ones used by logistics strategy analysts include Data Warehouse and Mini Tab. Make sure that you know as many systems as you can as well as possible. This kind of flexibility will make you a much more attractive hiring prospect in a competitive job market. Take the time to make sure that you're the person your potential employer wants to hire.
Remember that you can also work your way up through the supply chain to become a logistics strategy analyst. Some people start at an entry level, get the right certifications, and don't go on to get more formal training. However, this is best done within a single company. If you're planning to apply to other companies, don't be surprised if you find that extensive experience is required before you can get the logistics strategy analyst position you'd like. Put in applications for positions based on this knowledge. It'll help you decide which type of jobs to apply for, and which ones aren't worth your time.
Becoming a logistics strategy analyst could be the perfect choice if you love fixing problems and improving efficiency. Many companies can't operate properly without one! If you'd like to be part of the backbone of our economy, becoming a logistics strategy analyst is a smart idea. Take the time to find out what you need to do, and make sure you're well qualified before you apply. The result will be a fulfilling job that could last a lifetime.
