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Brooke Chaplan
Brooke Chaplan has written 60 articles for SB Informer.
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Skills All Good Warehouse Managers Should Have to be Effective

Brooke Chaplan

August 11, 2016


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Today’s leaders in warehouse operations face many challenges, many of which are unique to modern business life. Modern warehouse managers will need a variety of skills that their counterparts a few generations ago could not have imagined. Computer and accounting skills, shipping regulations, industrial safety requirements, and workplace demographics are in a constant state of flux, with new changes popping up all the time. The most effective warehouse management requires constant education and upgrading of these skills. Below are four skill areas today’s managers must maintain proficiency in to lead their teams effectively.

Business Computing and Accounting Skills
Warehouse managers today should have hands-on experience with basic software programs such as Microsoft Word and Excel. Beyond those programs, managers will also need training with various database management and inventory management applications, along with basic knowledge of managerial accounting and finance software programs. Up-and-coming managers will find an MBA in information technology management or similar degrees offer tremendous advantages over other managerial candidates who lack such education. The time may soon come when business graduate degrees will be required and not just preferred. 

Knowledge of State and Federal Shipping Regulations
Warehouse and delivery operations will have to meet different shipping requirements depending on the industry. An automotive parts company, for instance, will encounter stricter rules about shipping some of their products – such as car batteries, corrosives, and flammable materials – than an office furniture company. Effective warehouses must be thoroughly familiar with regulations specific to their industries, or they could unwittingly cause their employers to face steep fines and delays in shipping operations.

Trained in OSHA Safety Procedures
In a warehouse environment, safety is of the utmost importance and managers must stay current with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements for workplace safety. Failure to follow OSHA practices could lead to injury or even death, but even without any actual accidents taking place, failure to follow OSHA standards could lead to fines and penalties.

Diverse Leadership Ability
Despite the highly technical aspects of the job, good warehouse managers still need good, old-fashioned leadership ability, but with a twist. Today’s workplace is incredibly diverse, and managers in any field must adapt to the realities of the modern world. As a manager, your team will be comprised of men and women of various ages, ethnicities, educations, and cultural backgrounds. You may need to adapt your leadership style a bit to fit the needs of your diverse workplace.

Today’s warehouse managers must demonstrate a variety of skills and abilities to effectively supervise their team members and keep their company’s operations flowing smoothly. Forklift certification and people skills just aren’t enough to cut it in today’s fast-paced, high-tech economy, but with an open mind and a dedication to continued education, all warehouse managers can keep their skills updated to effectively perform their jobs.


                   



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