The work of couriers is invisible but very important. A valuable cargo delivered on time, flowers on the occasion of an important event and for no reason, a gift to a loved one, business papers, or a hot dinner – all this is invaluable courier work.
There are many misconceptions associated with this profession. They concern the imaginary lightness, simplicity, and prestige of such a job. In fact, things are a little different.
Features of the courier
In most cases, secondary education is sufficient to find a job as a courier. Employers pay attention to other factors: professional skills and personal qualities.
In a big city, you can get a job at any age: from 18 to 50 years old, or even older. Metropolitan companies are glad to see applicants aged 35+. Due to the fact that there are a large number of different orders: by weight and urgency. Therefore, age does not impose serious restrictions on work, and on the contrary, it can be an advantage in terms of knowing the city.
Experience can make it easier for them to find a job. In this profession, there are many subtleties associated with the execution of documentation, drawing up routes, and so on. A job seeker with experience, especially in the same city, will be in demand faster.
They can work full time or choose part time. More than half of all courier companies in large cities do not mind employees combining their duties with university or other work.
The pedestrian courier receives a non-flat monthly rate. Salary directly depends on the number and characteristics of the delivered parcels. Their work is one of the few where you get paid not for the “spent” hours, but for the actual work. The best employees are always rewarded financially and not only.
A courier with a personal car can easily get the desired position. Of course, with at least one year of driving experience and knowledge of the routes of the city and region.
Shipping failure and late delivery
Logistical failures and circumstantial inconveniences are just as unpredictable as the situations we already mentioned, but their existence can be very counterproductive for you and your business. Protecting yourself in the event of a breakdown or late delivery saves you a lot of time, money, and effort.
Useful skills for a courier job seeker
Employers pay attention not to the education of potential employees, but to their personal qualities and acquired skills. Namely:
- Punctuality and responsibility. If the courier is late for his own interview, then this job is unlikely to suit him. Also, the courier is responsible for the safety of the cargo in transit. It is especially important that the applicant understands this initially.
- Ability to draw up routes even before leaving the workplace. This skill consists of several factors. Traffic congestion monitoring is indispensable in big cities. A courier in Newcastle should always be aware of the traffic situation. Knowledge about ongoing repairs that may interfere with smooth delivery will be no less relevant.
- Impeccable knowledge of the city and region, as well as its history. Large cities are constantly growing and renovating, new facilities are being commissioned, industrial buildings are being converted into residential buildings, and so on. There are situations when information about the required house and street is not enough: you will need to know that in the recent past the office you were looking for was a garment factory or a metallurgical plant.
- Sociability and friendliness. The contact between the client and the courier lasts only a few seconds, but it is always more pleasant to communicate with an open person who delivered the goods not only on time but also with the necessary courtesy.
It is not difficult to get a job as a courier in a large settlement: just post your resume on the appropriate website or contact large courier companies that are recruiting new employees. With the right job skills and the desire to work, you are doomed to success.
Another article on this blog that might interests you:
Business Courier: Business – Features and Tips