How to get a builders merchants job with no experience.
Getting into a builders merchants with no experience of a trade can seem like a hard thing to do, but most entry level jobs within the industry are looking for people with the right attitude and willingness to learn and be reliable.
Target the Right Roles First
Start by looking for roles like yard operative, trade counter assistant (trade counter) or driver’s mate. These roles are typically ideal for people looking to break into the industry. With the right attitude most Builders Merchants will look to train you in the role within a year or so and help you develop the skills needed to move up the career ladder within the industry.
Highlight Transferable Skills on Your CV
The key is to draw attention to your most relevant experience first. Although the employer of a Builders Merchants will be looking for someone who can quickly learn the product range of timber, nails, adhesives, etc. You have other skills such as customer service, cash handling, experience of working in an outdoor environment, and a clean driving license that can be highlighted in your CV, followed by a short personal statement.
Approach Merchants Directly
Many Builders Merchants Jobs are filled by word of mouth or people walking in off the street and being asked to apply for a Builders Merchants Job before it has even been advertised on the internet. Calling a Builders Merchants and asking for a job could not be simpler. Pick up the phone and ring the local branch and ask to speak to the Branch Manager. Ask for an application form to be sent to you or better still, call into the yard with a printed copy of your CV.
Search Specialist Job Boards
Builders Merchants Jobs is covered in more detail at https://bmcareers.com/distributors-and-builders-merchants-vacancies. It is also worth registering for the national job search service (free and updated daily).
Pick Up a Useful Certification
A CSCS card, a manual handling certificate or a counterbalance forklift shunter license will make your application more attractive to builders merchants. These short courses can cost anywhere from £50 to £200 per course and can be completed within a day or two.
Simple. Turn up, be honest and make it easy for them to say yes.