Preparing Students for Success

Job candidates who have a basic understanding of industrial distribution have an advantage in the employment marketplace.  Employers are seeking candidates who can use their existing skills and knowledge to improve the company's bottom line. 

The Industrial Distribution Sales and Customer Service Learning Objectives Matrix outlines the knowledge and skills new or transitioning employees need to successfully join an industrial distributor in a sales or customer service position.

The Learning Objectives identify and differentiate knowledge and skills.  In addition there are three categories of necessary knowledge and skills: General Business, Sales and Customer Service, and the Industrial Distribution Business Model.  The Learning Objectives do not include higher level, specific product and technology knowledge and skills.   Industrial distribution is a large and diverse sector covering sub-sectors including industrial equipment, electrical components, chemicals and plastics, plumbing and heating supplies, etc.   No potential employee can become knowledgeable about products and technologies across this spectrum.

The training and education about the specific products and technologies necessary to be a high-value employee will usually be provided by or through the employer or someone will choose a specific sub-sector to target in their education.

Download the Industrial Distribution Sales and Customer Service Learning Objectives Matrix.