first job trucking just got cdl

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by jdshroudie, Mar 22, 2015.

  1. jdshroudie

    jdshroudie Light Load Member

    89
    42
    Dec 28, 2010
    Punta Gorda,Florida
    0
    I'm sitting in a hotel awaiting orientation tomorrow for my first trucking job..
    feeling nervous for some reason.....is this normal...did any of you feel this way at first ?
     
  2. Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.

  3. 8thnote

    8thnote Road Train Member

    1,980
    3,687
    Aug 12, 2013
    Chattanooga, TN
    0
    I was nervous. It's a big responsibility to safely handle a loaded rig. Just stay focused and you'll be fine. A little nerves is a good thing and will help you stay sharp.

    what company are you with?
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  4. jdshroudie

    jdshroudie Light Load Member

    89
    42
    Dec 28, 2010
    Punta Gorda,Florida
    0
    thanks...abilene motor express
     
    Chinatown Thanks this.
  5. G.Anthony

    G.Anthony Road Train Member

    4,564
    5,952
    Dec 10, 2014
    0
    Very normal, and a few things to remember.

    1) get your sleep tonight

    2) make sure the motel phone wakes you up at the very least 1 hour before the van picks you up, if the company sends one

    3) if there is coffee and danish at the motel, have some

    4) be sure you are clean, shaved, etc.

    5) be careful to go out after the orientation with your motel mates for a beer after orientation. the company has spies.

    6) if someone wants to order a pizza, make sure everyone chips in equally, and make sure you all get the same number of slices

    7) get back to bed early

    8 do not party all night

    9) when in orientation, stay awake

    10) do not leave any money in the motel room

    at orientation you may very well be signing a whole lot of papers. In orientation, the real nitty-gritty background checks on you start.

    at orientation when they break for coffee, lunch, make sure you are NOT late getting back.

    ask questions of the person in charge, but try not to be the only one asking questions.

    remember, orientation IS a job of sorts, they are paying you to be there. so pay attention and try NOT to fall asleep.


    good luck to you.

    let us know how you do.
     
  6. jdshroudie

    jdshroudie Light Load Member

    89
    42
    Dec 28, 2010
    Punta Gorda,Florida
    0
    thanks for your comments
     
  7. G.Anthony

    G.Anthony Road Train Member

    4,564
    5,952
    Dec 10, 2014
    0
    May I have a Snickers bar now?
     
  8. Wild Murphy

    Wild Murphy HAPPY TRUCK DRIVER

    942
    779
    Mar 25, 2014
    0
    Good luck to you. Your signature pic is hilarious!!!
     
  9. Chaps

    Chaps Light Load Member

    287
    132
    Nov 22, 2014
    South Carolina
    0
    jbshroudie is right, I just finished my orientation and I can tell you they will be observing you at the second you walk in the door. Be friendly and act interested and on the road test obey all traffic laws and drive with confidence. Long story short be a professional and yes it's normal to be nervous.

    Good luck!!
     
  10. Chinatown

    Chinatown Road Train Member

    76,976
    179,705
    Aug 28, 2011
    Henderson, NV & Orient
    0
    From what I've learned on this forum, you made an excellent choice with Abilene Motor Express.
     
  • Truckers Report Jobs

    Trucking Jobs in 30 seconds

    Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.