Training demands a holistic approach

Training is not only about increasing your skills base – it demands a far more holistic approach, says Juliette Fourie of training providers Metro Minds. “First you need to create a passion for the industry and not just teach the individual the small function he has to do daily. “Second you need to develop a skilled worker who is self-motivated and whose role extends beyond controlling shipments into consultancy. And this involves a combination of technical skill, life skill, emotional skill and business skill – creating a well rounded individual with the technical knowledge combined with a high level of emotional intelligence.” Equally important for an employer is the ability to identify future leaders in the industry – and for this you need a coach and more importantly, a mentor, says Fourie. And it’s all about understanding every link in the chain. “You can start by learning about the core of trade and forwarding and then choose your specialisation – sales, operations, finance, admin, marketing or business analysis. And training providers must be able to adapt to industry needs.” The road to upskilling can vary from short courses and cluster programmes to the full qualification in freight forwarding and clearing. But whatever the course, it’s important to ensure that it’s accredited, she says. Metro Minds is an accredited training provider with the Service Seta and Transport Seta. “Our courses range from customisation, soft skills, management, finance, sales and bridging to learnerships,” says Fourie. “We will soon be accredited with the ICC as a provider enabling us to train and educate the industry on the new Incoterms 2010 in line with the new ICC regulations,” she said.