Updating skills to protect your role and boost employability

The skills needed to remain current in the procurement industry are constantly changing. From technical procurement skills like working with new technology and software systems, to soft skills in negotiation, leadership and influence – top procurement talent have a wide range of skills at their disposal. That's why developing a plan for professional skills development is so important for individuals to ensure they excel in their current role and are desirable in the wider jobs market. If there are no formal processes for skills development in your current workplace I recommend starting by talking to your manager. Seek their input on the key areas you need to develop and strategies to improve your performance so they have buy-in to your training and ambitions and can monitor your progress. Have you got a professional skills development plan in place? And what areas are you looking to develop further in 2015?