Hi everybody. This is just a quick post to all the recently qualified Class 2 (Cat C) drivers who are finding it hard to get work.
I passed my Cat C test back in Oct 2011 and, like everybody else, I started applying for Cat C driving work. I kept getting knocked back at every turn by employers who either didnt bother replying or sent back the “standard” reply of “Thankyou for your application. You have not been selected for interview on this occasion. We will keep you CV on file etc etc…”
I signed up with EVERY agency I could think of in the hope that one of them would give me a go. Most of them were like “Im sorry but we need someone with 2 years experience.” I knew it wouldnt be easy but how are you supposed to get experience without someone giving you a chance? Obviously everybody has to start somewhere! Well eventually I got the break I had been looking for. One agency said that they were of the opinion that new drivers shouldnt be discriminated against just because they have only just passed as at the end of the day you passed the test so why should they say you cant drive for a job? I was over the moon. Finally I was going to get some work.
Well as it happens, in the last 3 months I have had some work from them but it has really only been the odd day here and there. I was expecting more but at the end of the day it is all experience.
I have continued to apply for other jobs while being with the agency and FINALLY I have got a full time job driving Class 2 vehicles. Its with a good company who also have their own in-house training facilities which are recognised by the DSA so it all counts toward my CPC hours.
Its been a long and VERY disheartening journey to get where I am now but to all your newly qualified drivers I have one thing to say to you.
“DONT GIVE UP!!! APPLY EVERYWHERE!!! You WILL get your break in the end!”