At Learn How to Source, we specialize in providing introduction-, basic- and advanced level training in procurement and sourcing techniques. Our courses are designed to equip new and growing buyers with the foundational knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the field of procurement. However, there are several essential skills for buyers that we do not cover in our training programs since they are not unique for the buyer community and can be provided specialists in their field.

Here, we will explore these skills and explain why they are important for professional buyers.

Essential Skills for Buyers

Agile and Lean Methodologies

Agile and Lean methodologies are essential skills for buyers who want to improve efficiency and adaptability in their procurement processes. Agile focuses on flexibility and rapid response to changes, while Lean aims at reducing waste and maximizing value. These methodologies help buyers to streamline operations, improve supplier collaboration, and enhance overall productivity.

Although we do not provide training on Agile and Lean, understanding these principles can help buyers to implement more efficient procurement strategies and better respond to market changes.

Coaching

Coaching is essential for buyers who lead teams or mentor junior buyers. Effective coaching can improve team performance, enhance problem-solving abilities, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. It involves guiding team members, providing constructive feedback, and helping them develop their skills.

While our courses do not cover coaching techniques, buyers who seek to build strong, high-performing teams should consider learning about coaching methods.

Communication

Effective communication is fundamental to successful procurement. It involves clearly conveying information, negotiating with suppliers, and collaborating with internal stakeholders. Good communication skills can lead to better relationships with suppliers, more favorable contract terms, and smoother procurement processes.

We do not offer training specifically on communication skills, but buyers should recognize the importance of clear, concise, and effective communication in their roles.

Digitalization

Digitalization is transforming the procurement landscape. It involves the use of digital tools and technologies to streamline procurement processes, improve data analysis, and enhance decision-making. Understanding digitalization can help buyers leverage technology to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and gain a competitive advantage.

Our training cover some essential skills for buyers within digitalization, but buyers should stay informed about the latest digital trends and tools in procurement.

Courses at LHTS:

• Digitization of Procurement (to the course).
• Digitization EDI for buyers (to the course).
• Digitization of Supplier onboarding process (to the course).
• Implementing e-Sourcing (to the course).

Finance

A solid understanding of finance is crucial for buyers. It enables them to analyze cost structures, assess financial risks, and make informed purchasing decisions. Knowledge of financial principles helps buyers to manage budgets, negotiate better deals, and contribute to the financial health of their organizations.

Although we do not provide finance training, buyers should seek to enhance their financial acumen to improve their procurement performance.

Innovation and Creativity

Innovation and creativity are essential for buyers who want to develop new procurement strategies and find unique solutions to challenges. These skills enable buyers to think outside the box, identify opportunities for improvement, and drive continuous innovation in their procurement processes.

Our courses do not cover innovation and creativity, but buyers should strive to cultivate these skills to stay ahead in a competitive market.

Intercultural Skills

In today’s globalized market, intercultural skills are vital for buyers who work with international suppliers. These skills involve understanding and respecting cultural differences, effectively communicating across cultures, and building strong relationships with global partners.

We do not provide training on intercultural skills, but buyers should seek to develop these competencies to enhance their effectiveness in international procurement.

Language Skills

Language skills are important for buyers working in multinational environments. Being able to communicate in multiple languages can improve supplier relationships, facilitate negotiations, and enhance collaboration with global teams.

While our courses do not focus on language training, buyers should consider learning new languages relevant to their work to improve their communication and negotiation capabilities.

Leadership and Business Skills

Leadership and business skills are crucial for buyers who aspire to management positions. These skills involve strategic thinking, decision-making, and the ability to lead and motivate teams. Strong leadership can drive procurement success, foster innovation, and improve organizational performance.

We do not offer training on leadership and business skills, but buyers should seek to develop these abilities to advance their careers.

Problem Solving

Problem-solving skills are essential for buyers who need to address challenges and find effective solutions in their procurement processes. This involves analytical thinking, creativity, and the ability to work under pressure.

Our training does not cover advanced problem-solving techniques, but buyers should strive to enhance these skills to handle complex procurement issues effectively.

Project Excellence

Project excellence involves managing procurement projects efficiently and effectively. This includes planning, execution, monitoring, and closing projects within budget and on time. Mastery of project management principles ensures that procurement initiatives are successful and aligned with organizational goals.

Although we do not provide training on project excellence, buyers should seek to improve their project management skills for better procurement outcomes.

Personal Development

Personal development is about continuously improving oneself to achieve personal and professional goals. This involves self-awareness, setting goals, and seeking opportunities for growth. Personal development helps buyers to enhance their skills, build confidence, and advance their careers.

We do not offer personal development training, but buyers should prioritize their own growth and seek resources to support their development journey.

Process Management and Project Management

Process management and project management are essential skills for buyers who need to oversee complex procurement processes and projects. These skills involve planning, coordinating, and controlling activities to achieve specific goals. Effective process and project management can improve efficiency, reduce risks, and ensure successful outcomes.

While our courses do not cover these topics in depth, buyers should develop these skills to manage procurement processes and projects effectively.

Social Skills

Social skills are important for building strong relationships with suppliers, colleagues, and stakeholders. These skills include empathy, active listening, and effective communication. Good social skills can lead to better collaboration, stronger partnerships, and more successful negotiations.

We do not provide training on social skills, but buyers should recognize their importance and strive to enhance their interpersonal abilities.

Transformation and Change Management

Transformation and change management are essential for buyers who lead or participate in procurement transformations. These skills involve managing change effectively, guiding teams through transitions, and ensuring that new processes and systems are successfully implemented.

Our training does not cover transformation and change management, but buyers should seek to develop these skills to drive successful procurement changes.

Negotiation

Negotiation is a critical skill for buyers, involving the ability to secure favorable terms, resolve conflicts, and build strong supplier relationships. Effective negotiation can lead to cost savings, improved supplier performance, and better contract terms.

Although we do not offer negotiation training, buyers should prioritize developing their negotiation skills to achieve better procurement outcomes. We recommend to contact Johan Aaro when it comes to negotiation training.

Summary Essential Skills for Buyers

At Learn How to Source, we provide essential introduction, basic and advanced level training in procurement and sourcing. However, to excel in their careers, buyers need to develop a range of advanced skills not covered by our courses. These include Agile and Lean methodologies, coaching, communication, digitalization, finance, innovation and creativity, intercultural skills, language skills, leadership and business skills, problem-solving, project excellence, personal development, process and project management, social skills, transformation and change management, and negotiation.

By recognizing the importance of these skills and seeking opportunities to develop them, buyers can enhance their effectiveness, drive procurement success, and advance their careers. Continuous learning and self-improvement are key to staying competitive in the ever-evolving field of procurement.

In the course Introducing the Procurement area and Learn How to Source you will about the competence model LHTS uses explaining the skillset required by a buyer.  In the course Competence Management you will learn about one of the key strategic areas within a Procurement function while assuring access to relevant competencies and, when properly performed, increase attractiveness as an Employer.

Note: Illustration to the blogpost “Essential Skills for Buyers Not Covered by LHTS” was created by Chat-GPT on July 8, 2024. 

Information about our Online Procurement courses in Swedish.