Right now, businesses all across the country are clamouring for more skilled, qualified drivers to support their distribution networks. With the industries demand for HGV drivers outstripping the supply available, more and more newly-qualified drivers will find that they get the pick of the litter when it comes to jobs in the field. From local delivery drivers to long-haul truck drivers, there have never been more opportunities out there for qualified HGV drivers. So, how easy is to for a fledgling driver to find their first HGV job, and what tips do we have for them?
Some jobs will require a lot more experience than others. That’s the same in any industry, so it understandable that there will be some jobs that you aren’t qualified for right away. These will usually be the higher paid positions, and it will be very clear what those are. However, all of those experienced drivers had to start somewhere! There are still plenty of roles available out there for a new HGV driver looking to get a foot on the career ladder – all you need it a qualification and the right attitude.
If you feel like you’d need some help finding a job, there are some places you can go for help. Driver recruitment agencies are a popular option for first-time drivers, and you can’t really go wrong by using one. These agencies work closely with logistics firms to supply drivers to a wide variety of customers up and down the country. But beware, these jobs are usually on a first come, first served basis, so you need to be on the ball to land yourself something you want.
Of course, you could always go down the traditional route and go it alone. This means creating yourself a CV that includes your experience, qualifications and any other relevant information, and then hit the street. Ideally, you would find the hiring managers for logistics and haulage firms in your area, or bigger companies who are advertising for the vacancies. You could do this via email, applications online, by post or even face to face. This last option will make you stand out from the crowd, as it’s a more unusual approach. But if you’re inexperienced, a little face to face time could be all a manager needs to convince them to give you a shot.
Following on from that, if you’re going the face to face route (or if you’re going for an interview) it pays to be prepared. This means being dressed smartly (or smart/casual at a minimum) and well presented. It also means having the answers to some basic questions readily prepared, and do a little research about each company beforehand. All of this makes for a good first impression and could help you win the job you’re looking for.
Many employers provide induction training for new recruits, so they can instruct them in the way they like things done and get them used to their way of doing things. Sometimes there’s ongoing instruction and support too, which gives new drivers the benefit of their years of experience and gives them a great extra for their CV too. These development programmes may include instruction that goes beyond the actual driving to look at such things as the workings of the vehicle and the company as a whole.
At The HGV Training Centre, we pride ourselves on providing high quality training to anyone interested in becoming an HGV driver. Whether you’re looking to take on extra qualifications and up-skill for new work, or if it’s your first time learning how to drive an HGV, we would love to help. To find out more, get in touch with us today.
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