How to Get Work as a Newly-Qualified HGV Driver in the UK

Our driver training programme gives you the knowledge and practical skills to drive a truck both efficiently and safely. They also represent the gateway to a hugely rewarding career that can earn you a very good wage, particularly when you achieve your HGV licence.

Gaining your HGV licence in the UK is a real achievement and it’s your passport to a rewarding career as a professional driver. The thing is, it’s only part of the equation, as once qualified as an HGV driver, you’ll also need to find work. As a fresh new face to the sector without experience, it can seem quite daunting, but the good news is that our team at Manpower will help you stand out!

In this article, we look at six ways you can stand out from the crowd so you can land that dream job and get your driving career up and running.

1- Get Some Real-World, Practical Experience

As a brand-new HGV driver, having some real-world, practical experience can be a real difference-maker. How do you get it without a full-time driving job? Well, you might want to consider temporary/seasonal delivery work or a voluntary role, perhaps driving for a local charity. It’s a great way to get hands-on experience that looks good on your CV.

2- Create a Standout CV

While we’re on the subject of CVs, yours offers a fantastic opportunity to make a great first impression. Be sure to talk about all of your transferrable skills that a good HGV driver needs, such as route planning, time management and knowledge of safety procedures. It’s a wise move to revisit your CV and tailor it to the exact job you’re going for.

3- Prepare for Interviews

Before attending any interview, something that will stand you in great stead for it is doing lots of research on the company you’re applying to. Knowing the precise values and vision of the organisation will show that you’re well-prepared and you know your stuff. Also, try and think of some common questions you might get asked by the interviewer.

4- Work On Your Skills

Another way to improve your chances of employment as an HGV driver is to add more strings to your bow. You might want to take your ADR test for transporting hazardous materials or upskill to your Class 1 (Cat C+E), which will not only make you more employable but also allow you to earn a higher salary.

5- Attend Networking Events

AEver heard the phrase, “It’s not what you know that matters, but who!”? Well, it’s a saying that applies when you’re looking for driving work, as networking can really open doors for you. By attending job fairs, open days and other HGV industry events, you may just be lucky enough to meet the right person at an opportune moment and get your career moving.

6- Do Your HGV Training With HGVT

When you train to be an HGV driver with HGVT, you get a big helping hand as a qualified driver. You see, we have a partnership with Manpower – one of the UK’s largest recruitment agencies – and that means all of our students get help in finding work once they’ve qualified.

In fact, with us, you can even start conversations with potential employers before you’ve got your HGV licence, meaning you’re ready to begin once you have.

Getting Your HGV Driver Career Off to a Flyer!

When trying to get your HGV career started, it can be challenging to find the right driving job – particularly if you’ve got no experience under your belt. However, with the right approach, anything is achievable, as we’ve covered here. It’s about doing what you can to get hands-on experience, upskilling and getting yourself out there!

If you’re lucky enough to be an HGVT student, you’ll get help in finding work, but if you’re not, just by staying patient and keeping on doing the right things, you’ll soon land your first driving job.