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Unemployment leaves you with plenty of room on your calendar. Warning: unless you're careful, free time is easily squandered and important momentum and marketability is lost.

What should Supply Chain professionals do while unemployed? Build value by increasing your marketing posture, exposure and edge. A lay-off is actually the perfect time to assess your marketability. Many employed professionals aren't maximizing their potential, but simply lack the time or energy to do something about situation.

Your unemployment frees you to give full-on attention on defining and communicating your unique contribution. Don't let this opportunity be missed! Make the most of your abundance of free time and construct a solid plan to overcome any perceived liabilities, including unemployment. The longer you're out in the marketplace, the more employers may be concerned about your organizational value. This is particularly true if your goal is to advance or change functionally.

Most employers believe that hiring employed candidates is less risky than hiring unemployed ones. However, in a recession, generally the ones who gain quality interviews are those who clearly prove immediate benefit as a solutions provider to employer business challenges. Provided by RL Stevens, Inc., a full-service career firm. For information, call (614) 431-3653 or e-mail columbus@rlstevens.com.

INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES

Deregulation Opens Markets -Deregulation of the trucking, rail, and airline industries has resulted in complex rates and a competitive free market. Rates now vary due to carrier supply and demand, volume, weight, and the type of materials transported. Shippers generally prefer to hand the responsibility of navigating this free market to forwarders and brokers who can aggressively source the best deal.

International Expansion -Domestic forwarders and customs brokers are in high demand in nations experiencing high growth. Countries like China and India need international freight forwarders (IFF) that understand the import and export business, tariffs, and international trade. Forwarders and brokers may have opportunities that extend well beyond domestic freight services. First Research, Inc.

BUSINESS TRENDS

Technology Improves Tracking -Custom brokers and forwarders can rely on sophisticated software and hardware to monitor the flow of cargo. Companies have developed advanced proprietary systems that can reduce delivery times, lower loss rates, and track cargo as it moves. RFID tags and scanners can automatically detect a shipment and enter the information into a centralized computer system.

Wages Rise -Average wages in freight shipping services have increased 50 percent in the past 10 years, but overall employment has remained relatively unchanged. Productivity levels have steadily risen due to advancements in logistics software and the proliferation of global trade. First Research, Inc.

Provided by RL Stevens, Inc., a full-service career firm.

For information, call (614) 431-3653 or e-mail columbus@rlstevens.com.