My Journey from Hospitality to Logistics: Navigating a New Career Path

Title: My Journey from Hospitality to Logistics: Navigating a New Career Path

Introduction:

Switching from the hospitality industry to logistics was never a straightforward journey, nor did I anticipate such a shift. But destiny has its way of guiding us to new paths, often unexpectedly. After graduating from hospitality school, opportunities in the market were plentiful, especially for students seeking careers abroad. However, a career shift to logistics brought its own set of challenges and demanded a steep learning curve. Despite this, a passion for pushing boundaries and a belief in my potential made the transition achievable.

Background Story:

I hail from a small village near the Nepal border known for the birthplace of Maa Janki, Sitamarhi. Growing up, my academic journey began at the local school, and I chose commerce for my intermediate studies. Coming from a middle-class family, I aimed to find a field that promised stable job prospects. Hospitality stood out to me, and I enrolled at Lovely Professional University.

During my training, the hospitality industry's real nature became apparent. Although it seemed perfect from the outside, the inside revealed its true challenges. After training, I realized my skills and interests were not a perfect match for the field. I sought operational roles outside of hospitality and secured a position with OYO through campus placement. Working at OYO in Goa was demanding yet rewarding, especially as I navigated the unique operational hurdles of such a competitive region.

Decision to Change:

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected hospitality, leaving many employees jobless. My boss was coming from logistics backgrounds and he recognized my potential. He encouraged me to explore logistics, emphasizing that the ability to learn is more important than sticking to one industry. Their encouragement led me to pursue online courses in supply chain management, operations, and logistics, which opened my eyes to the potential of the logistics industry.

Building the Bridge:

Transitioning from hospitality to logistics required me to tap into the customer service, communication, and crisis management skills I'd honed. I immersed myself in the world of logistics, starting as a Team Leader in Hub & Line Haul operations. Certifications from Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn, along with mentorship from my new network, provided the foundation for a successful transition.

Growth and Adaptation:

Initially, I felt apprehensive about my ability to perform well in logistics. But once I began learning the processes, I became passionate about my new role. My hospitality experience made me adept at managing people and situations, which proved invaluable in logistics. With determination and curiosity, I gradually rose to the Senior Management team in Strategy & Planning.

Achievements and Insights:

In logistics, I've achieved significant milestones, such as implementing streamlined processes and transforming team strategies. Key insights I’ve gained include the importance of adaptability, the value of mentorship, and the power of believing in oneself. Transitioning careers is not easy, but it's a rewarding journey that can open new doors.

Conclusion:

To anyone considering a career shift, it's crucial to follow your passions and be ready to learn and adapt. Embrace the transferable skills you've gained, pursue additional training or certification if necessary, and leverage the support of mentors. This openness to change will help you discover new opportunities.

Call to Action:

Feel free to reach out if you're interested in learning more or need guidance on navigating a career shift. I'm happy to share what I’ve learned and provide advice that could help you find your next path. Together, let's continue this journey of growth and exploration.