A study on the workplace adaptation of female sales in the forwarder industry

• Main Authors: Shih-wei Lu, 陸士偉
• Other Authors: Jiunn-Liang Guo
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2013
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/30409433076028200347

碩士 === 國立臺灣海洋大學 === 商船學系所 === 101 === The freight forwarder industry in Taiwan is confronted with operational difficulties. With an increasing number of women entering into the labor market, women, generally speaking, have a tender and attentive personality, which is essential for people in the freight forwarder industry. This study aimed at discussing whether female sales in the freight forwarder industry are able to carve out a niche for themselves. The study adopted qualitative research method, interviewing 7 female sales and 2 managers in the freight forwarder industry in northern Taiwan. This study sought to discover: 1. the current status of female sales in the freight forwarder industry in Taiwan; 2. the shift of the culture of drinking and toasting in response to the demands for high-quality service and specialization; 3. the relation between the change of the business climate and female entering the freight forwarder industry; 4. the suitability of female sales in this industry. Research results: 1. The long-term involvement of female sales in the industry is attributed to support from their family. This factor is crucial to their outstanding performance and long-term dedication. 2. In the past, clients of the freight forwarder industry mostly came from traditional industries, where drinking and toasting culture was prevalent; thus, it was considered not suited for women. However, nowadays in response to high-quality service and specialization in the industry, women’s tender and attentive personality gives a bonus to the demand. In addition, most administrative personnel of the clients are also female, which bonds the two sides even more closely. 3. There is much room for improvement in terms of the transformation of corporate culture. Given the fact that sales are declining, the freight forwarder industry should get rid of the traditional framework, from gender discrimination to the drinking and toasting culture. To fight for survival, the industry should lay their emphasis on cultivating employees’ expertise and capacity, which in turn enhances the service quality and competitiveness of the industry. 4. This study shows that female employees outshine their counterparts. Women’s unique personality can benefit the industry. Therefore, there is no doubt of women’s suitability in the freight forwarder industry.