WeeklySA_AdminInterest: An understanding of supply chain processes and interest in logistics form the bedrock of proficiency in this field
By Isaac Moledi
If you are a recent graduate who has little work experience, you might pursue relocations industry as a career. The dynamic and thriving relocations industry encompasses a vast array of career possibilities, from drivers with Code 14 licenses and skilled forklift operators to logistics and international business professionals.
In South Africa, especially in provinces of KwaZulu Natal and Gauteng where various incidence of thuggery, looting and hijacking of trucks have taken place in the past few years, resulting in the loss of lives and millions of rands, this sector provides a gateway to a promising global career landscape where individuals discover a wealth of diverse and exciting career paths.
One company which is active in this industry is Crown Relocations South Africa, one of the leading players in global mobility, providing relocation and moving services for individuals, families and businesses worldwide.
With a commitment to talent development and a passion for excellence, Crown Relocations South Africa says it is dedicated to helping individuals thrive in the relocations industry. The company’s Managing Director, Ian Pettey says: “In order to thrive in the relocations industry, you will need a distinctive set of soft skills. Among these, sales and marketing skills hold a paramount role, given the industry’s significant interactions with corporate clients. The ability to cultivate robust relationships and grasp the specific needs of these clients is a fundamental element for achieving success.”Pettey provides some of the opportunities that exist in the relocations business:
- Drivers with Code 14 licences play an indispensable role in the logistics process and are core to this sector. Operating reticulated trucks, they ensure the safe and efficient transportation of goods which really is at the heart of relocations. With the continuous movement of people and businesses, skilled drivers are in constant demand, offering a stable and rewarding career choice.
- Forklift drivers are highly skilled professionals responsible for managing the movement of goods within warehouses and during the loading and unloading of shipments. These individuals play a pivotal role in optimising operational efficiency, making their skills invaluable.
- Professionals in logistics and international business hold the key to unlocking the world of global trade. Those with diplomas or degrees in logistics are equipped to navigate the complexities of moving freight worldwide.
They manage supply chains, coordinate shiments and facilitate the efficient flow of goods on a global scale.
Pettey believes that an inherent interest in logistics forms the bedrock of proficiency in the relocations field. “A comprehensive understanding of the logistics and supply chain processes is essential for sound decision-making and effective problemsolving, both of which are critical in the day-to-day operations of this industry.
“A strong foundation or a genuine Interest in geography proves to be invaluable. This expertise aids in the planning of efficient transportation routes, ensuring timely deliveries’’.
A well-rounded familiarity with global geography enhances the ability to navigate the intricacies of international relocations and logistics.
“Of course, people skills are indispensable. The relocations industry is inherently service-oriented with the capability to interact adeptly with clients and colleagues while maintaining a customercentric approach, is pivotal.”
This does not only contributes to the provision of excellent service but also the cultivation of enduring relationships that are at the core of the industry’s success.
Crown Relocations South Africa acknowledges the potential of the industry and aims to address two vital aspects:
– Skills drain: Many individuals leave the country without exploring the thriving opportunities within the relocations sector.
The company aims to educate job seekers about the exciting career prospects available in the industry.
– Skills development and leadership programmes: Crown Relocations South Africa offers various learnership courses designed to help individuals develop the necessary skills for a successful career in the relocations industry. These courses encompass:
- Career Development: Customised programmes to assist employees in managing their careers, acquiring new skills and personal and professional growth.
- Mentoring: Fostering the transfer of knowledge and skills from experienced mentors to less experienced mentees, providing behavioural, health, motivational and career benefits.
- Personal Development: Empowering individuals to take ownership of their personal development, continually assess their abilities and employ techniques for self-improvement.
- Management Communication and Growth: Tailored programmes to nurture effective management skills, ensuring that leaders within the industry are equipped for success.
- Managing Yourself to Success: Helping new team members and experienced professionals lay a strong foundation for their careers, covering topics such as managing performance, embracing change, building relationships, personal accountability, resilience and self-development.
“Crown Relocations South Africa is committed to creating opportunities for individuals to embark on a fulfilling career in the relocations industry.
Once trained, they become a valuable skills commodity with global opportunities in abundance.’’
‘IT’S ESSENTIAL FOR BUSINESSES TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN AI AND AUTOMATION’
Replace: It should be recognized as a co-pilot in the realm of workplace collaboration and not as a replacement for human workers
By WSAM Writer
Artificial intelligence, together with automation, are rapidly evolving the landscape of the modern workplace, changing the way that human beings and technology interact.
But rather than viewing artificial intelligence (AI) or automation as a replacement for human workers, it is time to recognize these technologies as co-pilots in the realm of workplace collaboration, according to Filum Ho, CEO of Apollo Studio.
To fully grasp the potential of AI in workplace collaboration, Ho says it is essential to first distinguish between automation and AI and understand where each excels.
According to him, automation, including robotic process automation (RPA) and bot workers, is the bedrock of streamlining and optimising routine, rule-based and repetitive tasks. This form of technology involves software programmes that are trained to mimic repetitive human actions to perform various assignments, ranging from data entries in CRM systems, to automated invoicing, text recognition and more.
Ho says RPAs can operate 24/7 and be used for different industries, from finance, insurance, automotive, healthcare and more. This technology used to be the domain of larger companies. But it is increasingly becoming available to all sizes of businesses — and especially SMEs. If used correctly, SMEs can dramatically benefit from RPAs and even level the playing field with larger competitors.
In turn, this can help SMEs grow faster and create more jobs for South Africa. In workplace collaboration, Ho says automation’s role lies primarily in handling tasks that can be clearly defined, where human intervention is not necessarily required.
“Here, automation is supporting employees in their work by ensuring that these tasks are completed accurately and promptly. Through this support, human workers can focus their energy and capability on more complex, creative and strategic endeavours.” . On the other hand, Ho believes that artificial intelligence is not just another tool but a tool that augments human capabilities in unique ways.
“Unlike automation, AI and machine learning possess the ability to learn, adapt and make decisions based on data analysis. It can comprehend natural language, recognize patterns and even predict future outcomes.” In workplace collaboration, AI can assist in predictive analytics, customer data management, natural language processing for chatbots and even creative tasks such as content generation and recommendation systems. However, human intelligence is still required to vet these capabilities and ensure that they make sense.
“The true power of workplace collaboration is realised when automation and AI are integrated into human workflows. In this world, humans remain at the centre, contributing their creativity, emotional intelligence and strategic thinking.
“The distinction between automation and AI is essential for organisations seeking to make the most of this transformation. By striking a balance between human, automation and AI, organisations can empower their workforce to achieve unprecedented levels of productivity and innovation.”
Ho says empowering the workforce is even more important when considering the high rate of unemployment in South Africa. More than ever, we also need to ensure that South Africans are upskilled and equipped from a young age to be able to adapt to the fast-paced technological changes that are altering our world.
