SAP is a business management software that is used by many companies around the world. To implement and use this software, companies need SAP consultants, who are professionals who offer services for the adaptation, optimization and execution of SAP products1. SAP consultants are in high demand and well paid in the labor market, but they also face many challenges and demands.
One of the issues that can be observed is the shortage of older SAP consultants working. This may have several reasons, but some of the possible ones are:
- The constant evolution of SAP software. SAP software is always updating and incorporating new features and technologies, such as SAP S/4HANA2, which is the latest version of the software. This means that SAP consultants need to be constantly recycling and certifying themselves in the new versions and modules of the software. This can be difficult and tiring for older consultants, who may have difficulties to keep up with the changes and adapt to the new tools.
- The high competitiveness of the market. As SAP consultants are highly sought after, they also face a lot of competition among themselves. Younger consultants may have advantages over older ones, such as greater availability, flexibility, dynamism and knowledge of new trends. In addition, customers may prefer to hire younger consultants, because they believe they have more capacity for innovation and problem solving.
- The lack of career opportunities. Many SAP consultants work as freelancers or by projects, which can generate instability and uncertainty about their professional future. Older consultants may miss opportunities for growth and recognition within companies or in the market. They may also have difficulties to find new projects or clients, especially if they do not have a good network of contacts or a good reputation.
- The demotivation and professional burnout. SAP consulting is an activity that demands a lot from professionals, both in technical and emotional terms. SAP consultants have to deal with tight deadlines, pressure from clients, constant travel, frequent changes of environment and team, interpersonal conflicts, etc. This can generate a high level of stress and dissatisfaction at work, which can affect the physical and mental health of consultants. Older consultants may feel more the negative effects of this situation and lose interest or passion for their work.
These are some of the possible explanations for the low presence of older SAP consultants working. However, this does not mean that older consultants do not have value or potential to work in this area. On the contrary, they may have a lot of experience, knowledge and skills that can be useful and differential for projects and clients. In addition, they can benefit from some strategies to improve their professional situation, such as:
- Seek constant updating. SAP consultants should always be attentive to the novelties of the software and the market and seek to train themselves in the new versions and modules of SAP. They should also expand their knowledge in other areas related to business management, such as finance, logistics, marketing, etc.
- Build a good network of contacts. SAP consultants should maintain a good relationship with their colleagues, clients, partners and suppliers, as this can generate work opportunities and referrals. They should also participate in events, forums, communities and social networks focused on SAP consulting, as this can increase their visibility and credibility in the market.
- Seek new challenges and opportunities. SAP consultants should be open to new experiences and possibilities of work, such as changing area, company, country, etc. They should also look for projects that are compatible with their interests, goals and values, and that provide them with learning, satisfaction and recognition.
- Take care of health and well-being. SAP consultants should have a balanced routine that includes healthy habits of eating, sleeping, exercising and leisure. They should also seek professional or personal support when they feel they are suffering from stress, anxiety, depression or other emotional problems.
In conclusion, older SAP consultants may face some difficulties to remain active and competitive in the labor market, but this does not mean that they cannot continue to perform their profession with quality and success. They should value their strengths, seek their updating and motivation and take care of their health and well-being.