Choosing your career is likely to be one of the most
important decisions you will ever make and finding just the right one
can be a long and stressful process. A driving job within the trucking
industry is a viable option for many individuals because it can provide
competitive wages, flexible schedules, and attractive benefit packages.
If you are looking into a job within the trucking industry, use the
following tips to find out if a truck driving job is right for you.
Research
Different Trucking Companies – The internet is going to be your
greatest tool when it comes to researching these companies. Use
directories to find out what companies are within your area and where
they offer driving jobs. The Better Business Bureau is a great resource
because you can see if any complaints have been filed against a
particular trucking company. On the contrary, you can also find out
which companies have the highest employee retention rates, offer the
most comprehensive benefits, and have the most satisfied workers. Are
the bigger, national companies better or does a small local carrier
seem to be the best fit for you?
Talks to Actual Truckers – Once
again, use the internet to your advantage. There are numerous trucking
blogs and forums you can join and communicate with actual truck
drivers. Online, people will often be more honest and open with you
because they can remain anonymous. Ask about salary, benefits, and
schedules. Ask if there is anything they wish they had known before
they started their trucking career. Ask how life on the road affects
their family life. This is also a great place to get references;
because they can remain unidentified, individuals will often air any
discontent or disgruntles they have with their current or former
employers. On one particular trucking forum, users can even post their
favorite companies along with the bad ones.
Ride With a Pro –
“Test drive” your potential trucking career. If you can arrange it, go
on a trip with a seasoned driver. This will enable you to experience
what such a job actually entails and how a trucker lives on the road.
You will also get familiarized with locations truckers frequent, such
as loading docks and warehouses.
Recruiters – This should
probably be the last step. You want to speak with recruiters once you
have gathered unbiased and first-hand information from actual truck
drivers. Many recruiters will be pushing for one particular training
program or company, so by having done your research, you will know the
typical salary and benefits most companies offer. You should compile a
list of questions beforehand. This will ensure that all your questions
and concerns are addressed while you are meeting with a recruiter.
Also, be prepared to speak with a handful; you may have to “shop”
around before you find the training program or company that provides
you with ideal truck driving jobs.
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