Top 9 skills of great export/import managers

The job of an export/import manager is tough at the best of times–and these are not the best of times. Having the right skills will help you handle the challenges, grow your career, and stay relevant in a changing world.

Some of these nine skills are specific to the role, others are universal, but together they’ll stand you in good stead to weather the stores ahead.

1. Understanding finance and budgets

Financial savvy is key for export/import managers. You’ll need a good understanding of accounting systems so you can contribute to the budgeting process, especially if you work for a small organisation that’s running on a tight budget. Udemy’s Budgeting for Business course will help you take your skills to the next level.

2. Understanding technology

As the digital transformation in logistics gathers speed, it’s increasingly vital to stay up to date with the latest technology–and again, this is particularly important if you work for a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME), which risks being left behind by competitors with bigger budgets to spend on tech. In particular, you’ll need to be familiar with inventory management software and project management tools.

3. Understanding of international trade compliance requirements

The red tape around international trade has only become more complex since Brexit. As an export/import manager, you’ll probably be responsible for making sure your organisation complies with import and export laws and regulations of any country it trades with, as well as sticking to any trade agreements it may have signed. It’s vital to have a clear understanding of the requirements, not only to avoid penalties and delays but also to maintain good customer relations.

4. Networking skills

Because export/import managers interact with a wide range of stakeholders, including customers, vendors, transport services and government officials, good networking skills are vital to maintain these relationships. Attend industry events and get to know service providers and government officials personally, and you’re likely to get a much better response if something goes wrong during the export/import process. These relationships will not only serve you well in your current role but also help you build your career.

5. Analytical skills
 
Data analysis skills can help your organisation attract new customers and cut costs. The three key components of data analytics are gathering data, analysing data, and obtaining insights from data. As an export/import manager, you could do this with customer data to boost sales by getting insights into what they’re looking for, or with trade data to help you decide which markets to target and make smart decisions on supply chain issues.

6. Accountability and adaptability

Accountability means taking responsibility for your work, and even for your team’s work, taking the rap when they make a mistake. This will build trust not only with your team but also with external stakeholders. Adaptability means being able to roll with changes and learn new ways of thinking and working. This is now so essential that your adaptability quotient (AQ) is becoming the key to career success.

7. Ability to receive feedback

Sometimes customer feedback is going to sting–especially whenever you’re holding yourself accountable for whatever they’re upset about. You need to be able to treat the customer’s needs as top priority, take their feedback seriously and act on it, without getting angry or despondent. You’ll be rewarded with loyal customers and great word-of-mouth sales.

8. Communication skills 

You’ll need to be able to communicate clearly and concisely with stakeholders who don’t necessarily know much about logistics. Always ensure not only that you’re understood but also that you listen closely and understand what others have to say. 

9. Ability to handle stress

Export/import managers need to be able to make tough decisions quickly under stress, such as when a shipment is delayed, cargo is damaged or payments are late. Staying calm in a crisis is an invaluable skill–and it can be learned.