In a recent SIG webinar, Lalitha Rajagopalan, Co-founder and Head of Product Strategy & Marketing...
Music has the power to inspire, motivate, and elevate our moods, making any task more enjoyable—even the often complex and strategic process of procurement. Whether you’re negotiating contracts, managing supply chains, or crunching numbers, a good playlist can energize your workflow and even make the procurement process feel a bit more fun. Here’s a curated list of ten songs that resonate with the themes of procurement, each reflecting aspects like negotiation, strategy, and the highs and lows of deal-making.
"Thriller" by Michael Jackson
Procurement can sometimes feel like navigating a maze of complexities and surprises, much like the plot twists in this iconic song. The rhythm and beats of "Thriller" are perfect for keeping procurement professionals on their toes, ready to tackle unexpected challenges with a thriller's excitement.
"Eye of the Tiger" by Survivor
This classic hit is all about survival and overcoming challenges through perseverance and grit—qualities every procurement professional needs when pushing through tough negotiations or sourcing from new, untested suppliers.
"Money" by Pink Floyd
With its cash register sounds and lyrics about fiscal realities, "Money" is a frank ode to the financial elements at the heart of procurement. It’s a reminder of the careful balancing act between quality and cost and the crisp reality of budget limits.
"Under Pressure" by Queen & David Bowie
Procurement often involves working under tight deadlines and pressure. This song is a powerful anthem about handling pressure gracefully and finding solutions amidst chaos, mirroring the critical decision-making moments in procurement.
"Can't Buy Me Love" by The Beatles
The Beatles knew that not everything valuable has a price tag, a valuable lesson for procurement professionals who understand that the best value isn't always the cheapest option and that supplier relationships are critical.
"Sharp Dressed Man" by ZZ Top
First impressions matter, and this song is all about looking the part. For procurement professionals, attending meetings with suppliers or potential business partners often involves presenting oneself with poise and confidence, much like the sharp-dressed man ZZ Top sings about.
"The Chain" by Fleetwood Mac
This song reflects on the strength and necessity of links, akin to the supplier relationships that procurement professionals must forge and maintain. "The Chain" metaphorically underscores the interconnected, unbreakable chain of supply that procurement upholds.
"Take the Money and Run" by Steve Miller Band
This tune is perfect for highlighting the more strategic, even cunning aspects of procurement. It's about making smart, sometimes swift decisions—knowing when to seal a deal and when to move on to better opportunities.
"Shop Around" by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
Just as the song suggests doing with love, procurement involves shopping around to find the best suppliers, deals, and terms. It’s a lighthearted reminder that careful selection and comparison are key to procurement success.
"Bargain" by The Who
At its core, this song is about negotiating and getting the best value, paralleling the everyday tasks of a procurement officer who strives to bargain for the best terms and prices without compromising on quality.
Next time you’re lined up with tasks and need a musical boost, cue these ten procurement-themed songs. They’ll not only enhance your mood but also subconsciously reinforce the core aspects of your role—from negotiation and strategy to budget management and relationship building. So crank up the volume and let these tunes keep you company as you navigate the procurement landscape. Happy listening—and negotiating!
