SAP Career for Freshers seems challenging initially. If you’ve recently completed SAP training, specifically in SAP finance, and you find yourself applying for various jobs without success. Or perhaps you’re getting interview calls but not making it past the first round. So how to deal with this and what are the correct steps to get into this profession smoothly?
Here I am sharing the pain points, needs and correct solutions to the issues that beginners face while planning their career in SAP.
So we start with a story.
Let’s consider an example. Meet Arun, a 23-year-old who completed SAP FICO training eight months ago. He holds an MBA in Finance from an average B school. Arun was advised that completing SAP training would land him a good job, especially in an MNC. With high hopes, Arun joined an SAP training institute, ABC Organization. The institute assured him of a successful career after completing the training. However, after eight months of training and job hunting, Arun is yet to receive any interview calls, leaving him and his family worried.
The problem isn’t with the availability of SAP jobs but rather with the suitability of candidates for these roles. SAP consulting jobs require more than just theoretical knowledge; they demand practical experience and expertise in business processes. These roles are not entry-level; they require a solid foundation in domain experience.
Before considering a career in SAP consulting, one must have:
For freshers or those with limited experience, starting with SAP end-user roles is more practical. These roles offer valuable experience and a better chance for career growth. Some suitable roles include:
Practical experience is crucial. Completing training is just the first step. Candidates should:
Continue Practice: Even if job opportunities are scarce, you should to do consistent practice.
Project Completion: You should choose project-based training. Adding completed project details to your portfolio adds weight to your resume.
Explore Other Entry-Level Roles: Starting with roles like end-user or tester builds valuable experience.
When searching for SAP-related jobs, consider roles in various processes like P2P, O2C, and R2R. This would give you deep knowledge and relevant domain experience.
Here I share the major responsibilities that these key processes involve.
If you work in P2P, your key responsibilities encompass various tasks aligned for smooth procurement operations. These include the following:-
In essence, end users in MNCs using SAP software in the P2P process ensure efficient procurement, accurate financial transactions, and compliance with organizational standards.
In the O2C process in SAP, you are mainly responsible for efficient order fulfilment and revenue generation. This includes:-
In summary, end users in MNCs using SAP software in the O2C process ensure efficient order processing, accurate billing, timely delivery, and excellent customer service, ultimately contributing to the company’s revenue growth and customer satisfaction.
In the SAP R2R process, your core tasks aim at ensuring accurate financial reporting and compliance. Here are some key jobs:-
In summary, end users in MNCs using SAP software in the R2R process are instrumental in maintaining accurate financial records, preparing reports, ensuring compliance, and supporting audit activities, thereby contributing to the financial health and transparency of the organization.
After gaining sufficient experience in end-user roles, Freshers in SAP Career can easily transition to SAP consulting roles.
There is no harm in spending a couple of years gaining some experience as an SAP end user. This will help reduce the pressure. When you join such a job, there will always be pressure. However, with time, you can upgrade your skills, do sufficient practice in a sandbox environment, and gain experience.
Then, you can start applying for different jobs.
Some good companies even absorb their consultants in-house. So, if you’re doing well on-site, they might offer you a position internally.
Many candidates have transitioned from working on the user side to SAP consulting. This option is available. Instead of getting frustrated or worried about not getting interview calls, consider starting with P2P, O2C, or R2R jobs based on your qualifications and experience. This can be a stepping stone to SAP consulting. It’s a tried and tested method, and many people have landed good packages by making this transition.
Starting your SAP career with end-user roles is a proven strategy. It offers valuable experience, reduces job pressure, and opens pathways to higher-paying consulting roles in the future. Remember, there’s no shortcut to success, but with dedication and the right approach, you’ll get there.
Here is a Video on this subject:- Not Getting Job Calls? Know Common Mistakes
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