The logistics industry keeps Britain on the move. Over the last twenty years, A&S Recruitment has earned a reputation as one of the region’s leading recruitment agencies for candidates at any stage of their careers.
This month, Becky Crevald shares with Porttalk the agency’s roadmap to help school leavers in the sector stand out – not just as a good candidate, but as the right one.
Becky says: “When people think of logistics, they often picture warehouses and trucks, but the industry is much bigger. From IT support and data analysis to customer service, sustainability, procurement, supply chain planning, and project management, a world of exciting roles exists behind the scenes. Keep an open mind, you might find your perfect fit in a place you hadn’t even considered.”
Create a CV That Tells Your Story
Even if you’re starting out, your CV can show employers what you bring to the table. Include school projects, part-time jobs, sports teams, or leadership roles highlighting your teamwork, reliability, and problem-solving skills. Make it clean, easy to read, and free of spelling mistakes. Most importantly, tailor it to the role you’re applying for.
Build a Professional Online Presence Early
Creating a LinkedIn profile doesn’t require you to have 10 years’ work experience. Becky explains: “We can’t stress the benefits of setting up a profile from the very start of your career. LinkedIn is a great place to connect with logistics companies, learn about the industry, and show employers that you’re serious about your career. A strong LinkedIn profile could even help you land opportunities before you start applying.”
Watch What You Post Online – Employers Are Watching Too
These days, your social media is often the first impression you make, even before you step into an interview. Hiring managers and recruiters will frequently check out your Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or other platforms to get a sense of who you are outside of your CV. Photos, comments, and even the pages you follow can say a lot. Before you start applying for jobs, take a good look at your profiles and clean up anything that might not show you in a professional light. It doesn’t mean you can’t have fun online – make sure what’s public reflects the kind of person an employer would be proud to have on their team.
Get Experience Wherever You Can
Every bit of experience counts. Whether it’s casual warehouse work, volunteering at events, or even helping out at a local business with deliveries, these experiences show that you’re motivated and willing to learn. Hands-on work will give you an edge over other school leavers.
Network, Network, Network
Sometimes it’s not just what you know – it’s who you know. Attend career fairs, open days, or even online events related to logistics. Introduce yourself, ask questions, and follow up. A simple conversation could open the door to your first big opportunity.
Show Off Your Soft Skills
The logistics industry runs on teamwork, communication, and flexibility. Employers value people who can stay calm under pressure, work well with others, and adapt when things don’t go to plan. Consider examples from school, sports, or work experience that demonstrate these skills and be ready to discuss them.
Prepare Like a Pro for Interviews
Going for your first real job? Preparation is key. Research the company beforehand, consider why you want to work in logistics, and practice answering common interview questions. A little prep shows you’re serious about starting a career – it also helps you feel a whole lot more confident.
One CV Doesn’t Fit All
Don’t unthinkingly send the same CV and cover letter to every job you apply for. Invest the time to read the job advert carefully and tweak your application to highlight your skills and experiences that match the company’s expectations. Employers do notice when applicants go that extra mile and put in the effort.
Invest in Yourself
You don’t have to stop learning just because school has finished. Short courses that offer accreditations in forklift driving, warehouse safety, or supply chain basics, for example, can make you much more employable. Being proactive in this way also highlights to employers that you’re willing to invest in yourself.
Work With a Specialist Recruiter – Like Us
Finding your first job can feel overwhelming when you’re just starting out, but you don’t have to do it alone.
As Becky Crevald says: “Specialists in logistics recruitment, our team can help you get your foot in the door faster. From CV tips to interview prep, we’re here to back you all the way.”
Becky concludes: “This industry is always evolving, and it rewards those people who are hardworking, flexible, and hungry to learn. If you’re ready to start your journey, we are here to help you make it happen – one opportunity at a time.”
Originally posted on Porttalk (https://porttalk.co.uk/from-forklifts-to-future-leaders-how-school-leavers-can-stand-out-in-the-logistics-job-market/)