Unless you have a natural penchant for IT software or work in the industry, you may not have heard about SAP or considered a career in it. In Europe, the SAP market is particularly skills-short so educating people about SAP and the career opportunities ( see latest SAP jobs here ) it can offer is vital for establishing a future talent pipeline. But how do you get into SAP and how can you build a successful career out of it?
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About SAP
Having an interest in IT and acquiring coding and configuration skills is essential to lay a strong foundation for a career in SAP. Since SAP is extensively used across various business functions, there are several degree options available that can prepare you for a successful career in SAP. For instance, an international trade degree or commercial background would be beneficial if you aspire to become a SAP SD Consultant. Similarly, an accountancy or finance degree/background would be suitable for pursuing a job as a SAP FICO Consultant, while having a sociology/HR degree could assist you in becoming a SAP HR Consultant. While it is important to have enthusiasm for IT, it is equally crucial to possess the desire to comprehend business operations and apply your knowledge of business principles to the functioning of IT systems.
Technical or Functional
The path to entering the SAP field can differ depending on whether you choose a technical or functional position. Technical roles are ideal for individuals with an interest in programming, while functional roles are better suited for those who enjoy managing relationships and customizing systems to meet client needs. The technical consultant plays a vital role in each project by assisting the functional consultant in modifying the system to address specific client requirements.
How to Enter the SAP Career Field
If you have completed your education and are looking to gain practical experience, one option is to apply for a position as a system user or junior consultant. These roles will provide an opportunity to learn about system configuration and work alongside experienced consultants, which can be a valuable learning opportunity. Working at a reputable consultancy may also offer the chance to pursue certifications, which can be costly if pursued independently.
How to make yourself desirable to employers?
From an employer’s perspective, the most important skill of a SAP consultant is the ability to configure systems. Certification is impressive and acts as proof of your expertise but it is by no means essential for a successful SAP career. If you are a logical person, with a strong understanding of systems and a desire to continuously learn, then you will be suited to a career in SAP. The best way to progress is to know what you want to specialise in and know how to get the knowledge and experience to make you an expert in that field. Keeping up-to-date with industry news and available qualifications will also help you stand out against other candidates at each stage of your career.
If you want to explore further information about SAP, feel free to check out our additional articles on the subject below.
The top 5 SAP modules that offer the highest salaries.
If you are fascinated by emerging technologies and aspire to build a career in the modern age of cloud computing, explore our range of SAP job opportunities and begin your professional journey.
If you are an employer seeking to recruit individuals with expertise in SAP, please click here.
Want to explore different pathways to enter the world of STEM careers? Discover more by clicking here.
Starting work in SAP: Where do I begin?
To enter the SAP career field, you can follow these steps:
1. Acquire SAP training and certification: Select the specific module you wish to pursue as a career and enroll in an appropriate SAP course offered by an authorized training partner. Upon completion, obtain certification.
2. Collaborate with a consulting company: Seek opportunities to work with consulting firms that specialize in SAP implementation or support services. This will provide valuable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world projects.
3. Gain experience as a trainee in SAP support: Look for entry-level positions or internships within organizations that offer SAP support services. This will allow you to learn from experienced professionals while assisting with troubleshooting and resolving issues related to SAP systems.
Remember, building your network within the industry is crucial for finding job opportunities and staying updated on advancements in the field of SAP technology.
Is SAP a viable career choice?
SAP consulting is a promising career path that combines technology and business administration. It involves working with SAP software, which helps companies manage their operations more efficiently. As an SAP consultant, you would assist businesses in implementing and optimizing this software to meet their specific needs.
To get started in the SAP career field, here are some steps you can follow:
1. Acquire relevant education or certification: Having a degree in computer science, information technology, or business administration can be beneficial for entering the SAP industry. Additionally, obtaining certifications from recognized institutions like SAP itself can enhance your credibility and increase job prospects.
2. Gain practical experience: While theoretical knowledge is important, gaining hands-on experience with SAP systems is crucial. Look for internships or entry-level positions where you can work directly with these technologies and learn how they are implemented within organizations.
By following these steps diligently while adapting them according to your individual circumstances and goals, you will be well-prepared to embark on a successful journey into an exciting career as an SAP consultant.
Salary of a Beginner SAP Consultant
To become a SAP Consultant, a minimum of one year of experience is typically required. This experience helps individuals gain practical knowledge and understanding of SAP systems and processes before taking on more complex roles within the field.
On the other hand, the highest salary that a SAP Consultant can earn in India is around ₹16.0 Lakhs per year (₹1.3L per month). This higher salary range usually applies to experienced consultants who have several years of relevant work experience and possess advanced skills in specific areas of SAP.
