Exploring Career Opportunities for Manufacturing Professionals with a Desire for Travel and Flexibility

Are you a manufacturing professional who is looking for a job that offers the freedom to travel and work with more flexibility? Perhaps your experiences lie in manufacturing and inventory management, but sales have never been your strong suit. Don't worry; there are still plenty of opportunities out there that align with your skills and interests.

B2B Manufacturing Opportunities

One interesting avenue to explore is delving into the B2B space by helping companies centralize their inventory and product information. Consider starting with a single factory or company and creating a comprehensive database of their offerings. By doing so, you can quickly develop a core B2B database of manufacturers, factories, and companies in your area.

The next step is to strategize ways to connect these entities for subcontracting, purchasing, or selling. This process can be as simple as maintaining a directory but can elevate to a highly-efficient platform that offers suggestions based on specific criteria such as location, cost, and ease of connection. Think of it as a search engine specifically designed to facilitate such transactions.

Teaching and Training

Another great opportunity is leveraging your skills in training and teaching. You can work as a subject matter expert in various topics such as safety, logistics, project planning, inventory control, and more. Many seminar companies travel from city to city, offering classes that can last from one day to several weeks. You could either work directly for these companies or operate as an independent contractor, allowing for more flexibility in your career.

However, it's important to note that you may need to pursue additional certifications or join training programs to formalize your expertise. Public speaking skills are also crucial, so consider joining a local Toastmasters International Club to help enhance your communication abilities.

Pre-Sales Support and International Travel

Yet another pathway to consider is pre-sales support, where you can travel with the sales team without engaging in direct sales. Pre-sales roles often involve providing technical support, answering queries, and helping customers understand the value of your products or services. Sometimes these roles offer a more variable schedule, allowing you to work in multiple countries without needing a visa.

Moreover, having a degree can sometimes make the process of obtaining a visa more manageable. For example, traveling to Switzerland or Japan can be smoother if you have the appropriate educational background.

Transitioning to a New Career Path

No matter which direction you choose to take, transitioning into a new career can be challenging. It's important to be open to learning and acquiring new skills that align with the demands of your chosen field. Consider seeking out relevant training programs or workshops that can help you develop the necessary expertise.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to specialize in B2B manufacturing, teach and train others, or engage in pre-sales support, there are ample opportunities available for manufacturing professionals who desire travel and flexibility. By leveraging your existing skills and exploring new ones, you can find a rewarding career that meets your needs.