4 March 2010 | Shirley Cooper
The perception of procurement is one of Shirley Cooper’s themes for her CIPS presidency. Here are her basic tips to ensure buyers are viewed as professional and competent
The past year has been a challenging one for all involved in procurement as cost savings have been the focus for many organisations. This has meant even more pressure on CPOs to sharpen their businesses by increasing efficiencies in procurement and the supply chain.
Now is the time to look at the raised profile the recession has created and inject positivity and value into the profession by focusing on reputation every day. Our reputation is critical for our success so here are 10 tips to help build a good reputation.
1. Look the part Make sure you always carry yourself in a professional manner, but above all make sure you are comfortable with your look as a genuine appearance will always give the best impression.
2. Live the part Think about your surroundings and the impression they give off. An untidy desk may not just mean a chaotic mind but often someone who takes no care and attention over their work.
3. Have morals Prove that you are trustworthy and reliable and always treat others how you’d like to be treated. Consider this in every encounter as it can take only one negative experience to ruin a reputation.
4. Have self-belief If you don’t believe in yourself, no one else will. You have to be true to your own strengths and weaknesses. Build on strengths and improve weaknesses, always in the knowledge that you can do anything you set your mind to.
5. Listen actively Listen and react accordingly. This is often one of the hardest things to do, but absolutely essential.
6. Be consistent Inconsistency can be one of the most frustrating attributes in the business world. Your reputation is only as good as your last meeting, so ensure you approach everything with the same can-do attitude.
7. Consider body language Having a “closed” or “open” approach can say a lot about a person. Consider eye contact, posture and having an open frame to come across as approachable, likeable and trustworthy.
8. Think outside the box Stretch outside your comfort zone by doing at least one new thing every day. Push the boundaries to build knowledge and gravitas inside and outside your organisation.
9. Know your personal brand Know your own values, such as passion, positivity and professionalism, and stick to them. Don’t compromise and try to be something you’re not. Being genuine is critical to keeping your reputation intact.
10. Bring back manners Get into the habit of saying “please” and “thank you” during all conversations and meetings. A courteous approach will give you the edge over those who forget these simple pleasantries.
Be the highest expression of who you are – love what you do, love where you do it, love who you do it with. Reputation is one of the three key elements of my presidency and it can really help to build your confidence at work to breed success.
See next issue for tips on how to build better relationships and how to open the boardroom door to procurement.
Key Points
• Dress and act like you mean business
• Be genuine and believe in your own strengths
• Stretch yourself and try to learn something new every day
Shirley Cooper is CIPS president and procurement and supply chain director, Computacenter
