The transportation industry is growing because of the need for reliable and efficient transportation. Many people apply for transportation jobs, so the competition can be tough. If you are seriously considering a career in transportation, there are many ways you can prepare yourself while in high school. Employers look for people who will do a good job and make a positive impression on customers. To do this, you must have good writing, speaking, and grooming skills. These can set you apart from hundreds of other job applicants.
Writing Skills
The ability to express yourself in writing is essential. Good communication skills in letter writing and other forms of written expression often make a person stand out.
Learning how to write and type a resume is necessary. A resume is a written summary of a person's background and experience. Employers often ask for a resume to learn about your present job goals and past job experiences.
When you send your resume to a possible employer, you must also send a cover letter. A cover letter offers a brief introduction. It should mention where you learned of the job opportunity, your basic qualifications, why you think you are a good candidate for the job, and a request for an interview. There must be no errors in grammar, spelling, or sentence structure. Ask your teacher, guidance counselor, or parents for help in writing such a letter. You can also check a book out at the library on writing cover letters.
Speaking Skills
People in the transportation field must also have good speaking skills because, as a service industry, employees deal directly with people. Being patient, polite, and helpful suggests a willingness to communicate positively with others. Much of this takes practice and common sense.
Most people will have a job interview to meet their potential employer face to face. The interview will give you a chance to express yourself and learn more about the job. It also gives the employer an opportunity to see how you relate and talk with people.
Ask your guidance counselor to help you prepare for an interview. Courses in public speaking may help to improve your communication skills. You can practice interviewing with friends and family.
Grooming Skills
Besides writing and speaking skills, the way you dress says a lot about you. First impressions are important. The first thing an employer will notice about you is your appearance. If you are neat and well groomed, you will make a good impression.
If you are unsure about what to wear to interviews, ask your parents or school counselor for their opinions. Listen to their advice. They have had experience with interviews and may be able to give you some valuable tips.
Power, responsibility, and independence are three reasons to go into the field of transportation. Freedom, world travel, and excitement are three more. If you find any of these things interesting, consider a career in transportation. When you realize how many years a person spends working, you will understand that it pays to go into something that you really enjoy. Transportation offers many careers. Perhaps one of them is for you.
Questions to Ask Yourself
1) How can you learn to write a good resume?
2) Are your writing, speaking, and grooming skills up to par?
3) How can you further improve them?
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