BrownSyndrome
Member
I recently completed the UPS seasonal driver training and thought I would share some of my overall impressions.
First of all, I admire how UPS gives anyone a chance. I don't know how many times I've spent hours applying for a job online only to never hear anything back. But with UPS, I applied online and the whole process was relatively quick. An "interview" was immediately and automatically scheduled at the nearest UPS hub. The "interview" turned out to be more of an informational session where a representative from HR came out and tried to scare the **** out of everybody. I get that; weed out the lazy people right away. The HR guy was up-front about the job and explained that this was hard work and that if we were having doubts then perhaps we should consider doing something else.
Those not scared off by the presentation were offered a slightly more formal "interview," but even this was a cakewalk. Here's what they are trying to determine during the one-on-one interview: Did you graduate from the 6th grade? Do you think you can drive a truck? Are you sure? (For the record, the only truck I had ever driven was a UHaul, but confidence goes a long way).
Next, the DOT physical, which basically tested the following: Is your heart about to stop? If not, you're good.
(and for those of you wondering....no drug screening)
The final hurtle to get past before the actual training begins is a preliminary road test. To succeed, you just need to drive safely and with confidence. Don't wreck the truck or get pulled over and you'll probably be just fine.
Now the fun really starts, the formal training...
This part was actually pretty rigorous. They will ask a lot from you both physically, psychologically and cognitively. You will get frustrated. You will feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, and maybe even discouraged. But that's the whole point. They're still trying to screen out the people who lack the motivation to perform the way they expect their drivers to perform. I get that too. We all know UPS pays good, so it stands to reason that they need to make sure they're getting a return on their investment.
Make sure you understand the basic concepts, especially the safety. And do your memorization of the 5 Seeing Habits and 10 Point Driving Commentary. That part is no joke. When they say you must have it memorized verbatim they mean it.
But here's what it all boils down to: Prove you want this job. Ever seen the movie Rudy? Be that guy. You may not be the smartest guy (or gal) in the room. You may not be the youngest or the most fit, but if you can show them that you genuinely want the job and are willing to work for it you will pass. That's what I took away from the training.
So again, I give all props to UPS for offering anyone a chance who wants it. How many companies will actually do that these days? It all comes down to the individual and whether or not he or she can prove themselves worthy. If you can, then UPS will take you up on the offer and give you a job.
My next goal: Be a rockstar at driving the brown truck and maybe, just maybe I could have a chance at a full time gig. (Working hard with my fingers crossed...)
First of all, I admire how UPS gives anyone a chance. I don't know how many times I've spent hours applying for a job online only to never hear anything back. But with UPS, I applied online and the whole process was relatively quick. An "interview" was immediately and automatically scheduled at the nearest UPS hub. The "interview" turned out to be more of an informational session where a representative from HR came out and tried to scare the **** out of everybody. I get that; weed out the lazy people right away. The HR guy was up-front about the job and explained that this was hard work and that if we were having doubts then perhaps we should consider doing something else.
Those not scared off by the presentation were offered a slightly more formal "interview," but even this was a cakewalk. Here's what they are trying to determine during the one-on-one interview: Did you graduate from the 6th grade? Do you think you can drive a truck? Are you sure? (For the record, the only truck I had ever driven was a UHaul, but confidence goes a long way).
Next, the DOT physical, which basically tested the following: Is your heart about to stop? If not, you're good.
(and for those of you wondering....no drug screening)
The final hurtle to get past before the actual training begins is a preliminary road test. To succeed, you just need to drive safely and with confidence. Don't wreck the truck or get pulled over and you'll probably be just fine.
Now the fun really starts, the formal training...
This part was actually pretty rigorous. They will ask a lot from you both physically, psychologically and cognitively. You will get frustrated. You will feel overwhelmed, anxious, exhausted, and maybe even discouraged. But that's the whole point. They're still trying to screen out the people who lack the motivation to perform the way they expect their drivers to perform. I get that too. We all know UPS pays good, so it stands to reason that they need to make sure they're getting a return on their investment.
Make sure you understand the basic concepts, especially the safety. And do your memorization of the 5 Seeing Habits and 10 Point Driving Commentary. That part is no joke. When they say you must have it memorized verbatim they mean it.
But here's what it all boils down to: Prove you want this job. Ever seen the movie Rudy? Be that guy. You may not be the smartest guy (or gal) in the room. You may not be the youngest or the most fit, but if you can show them that you genuinely want the job and are willing to work for it you will pass. That's what I took away from the training.
So again, I give all props to UPS for offering anyone a chance who wants it. How many companies will actually do that these days? It all comes down to the individual and whether or not he or she can prove themselves worthy. If you can, then UPS will take you up on the offer and give you a job.
My next goal: Be a rockstar at driving the brown truck and maybe, just maybe I could have a chance at a full time gig. (Working hard with my fingers crossed...)