2024 recruitment trends: what's in store for the year ahead
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New year, new job scene. Or at least the saying goes, right? It seems that at the start of a every year there&rsquo;s always a shift in what&rsquo;s hot &ndash; and what&rsquo;s not, and 2024 is certainly no different. Sit back whilst we spill the tea on the latest trends to shake up our hiring habits.
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1. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;The tech takeover continues
It&rsquo;s no surprise that technology like AI and machine learning is switching up the hiring process. Phrases that we definitely didn&rsquo;t expect to see on our 2024 bingo card just two years ago, are now stealing the spotlight, revolutionising tasks such as candidate matching, CV screening, and initial interviewing. It&rsquo;s through these innovations that we&rsquo;re seeing a real upgrade across the recruitment process, with improvements to productivity, reductions in bias, and the opportunity for recruiters to focus on what really matters to them and their business, such as relationship building and talent management. Ready or not, tech is the future - don&rsquo;t be afraid to incorporate it into your 2024 game plan.
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2. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Don&rsquo;t shy away from the diversity dance
Equity, diversity, and inclusion &ndash; once buzzwords in the boardroom are now the real deal in successful organisations. When it comes to hiring, it's time for companies to make a big deal about their equality practices, implementing inclusive interviewing practices and diverse placements. But this shift isn&rsquo;t just about meeting societal expectations &ndash; it&rsquo;s a strategic effort to spark innovation and create a workplace that is vibrant and strong.
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3. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Skills over degrees
It appears there&rsquo;s a noticeable change in the air regarding employers&rsquo; approach to hiring, with more and more waking up to the fact that the dynamic and diverse workplaces of today demand more than just technical know-how and academic accolades. Of course, they're important, but there's a bigger, more nuanced picture. It's about honing in on the intangibles &ndash; those down-to-earth skills that make a workplace click. Think effective communication, adaptability, and problem-solving; these are the traits that offer impact and value to a team. The shift isn't about tossing that pile of CVs aside (apologies to all the admin avoiders); it's about looking past the paper trail and focusing on the skills that truly spell success. Yep, we&rsquo;re officially in our &lsquo;soft skills&rsquo; era, where a candidate's ability to navigate the human side of work is just as crucial as their paper credentials.
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4. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Levelling up the candidate experience
This year, it&rsquo;s predicted that the candidate experience will become a key differentiator for employers, with today&rsquo;s job seekers expecting a seamless, personalised, and candidate-centric recruitment process. They&rsquo;re looking for employers who get what makes them tick, &nbsp;understands their &nbsp;values and career goals, and guides them through the job-hunting journey with the right info at the right time. Because let&rsquo;s face it, nobody needs a headache when job-hunting. The key is making the candidate feel like a VIP; organisations that pull this off will build a rep as a workplace that everyone wants to be part of.
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So, there you have it &ndash; the lowdown on what's shaking in the UK's job market this year. In a landscape driven by technology, diversity, and changing work dynamic, it&rsquo;s imperative that companies stay ahead of the curve and adapt to the evolving industry. By doing so, they&rsquo;ll undoubtedly set their organisations up for success in 2024.
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2024 recruitment trends: what's in store for the year ahead

After a well-deserved break from the road, it's time to dust off those driving gloves and gear up for an exciting journey ahead. As a driving recruitment specialist, we wanted to recap the numerous benefits of the HGV profession. So, if you're contemplating a return, this blog post aims to provide you with valuable insights and recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
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High demand and job security:
The industry has suffered from a long-term shortage of HGV drivers for nearly a decade; according to Logistics UK, the number currently stands at 60,000 short of capacity. The transport and logistics sector plays a pivotal role in the economy, and companies are constantly seeking skilled professionals to meet their delivery needs. With the rise of e-commerce and online shopping, the demand for efficient transportation has skyrocketed, creating a wealth of job opportunities for experienced HGV drivers. Returning to the profession now means enjoying enhanced job security and increased bargaining power in terms of pay and benefits.
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Competitive salaries and benefits:
One of the most significant perks of returning to the HGV profession is the prospect of attractive salaries and benefits. Due to the driver shortage crisis, companies are taking proactive measures to retain and attract drivers. This includes offering higher wages than we&rsquo;ve historically seen, signing-on bonuses, improved working conditions, and comprehensive benefit packages. By re-entering the industry now, you could really take advantage of what&rsquo;s on offer and secure a stable income that rewards both your skills and experience.
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Technological advancements and improved working conditions:
Technology is transforming the transport industry which is good news for returning HGV drivers. Many companies have embraced telematics, route optimisation software, and advanced GPS systems to streamline operations and enhance driver safety. These technological advancements have not only made the job more efficient but also improved overall working conditions. With better equipment, smarter navigation systems, and enhanced communication tools, returning drivers can experience a more comfortable and productive work environment.
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Flexibility and work-life balance:
One of the reasons many professionals take a break from the HGV industry is to find a better work-life balance. Over the past decade, flexibility in the workplace has gone from non-existent to one of the most important thing candidates look for when job hunting. And that doesn&rsquo;t stop with the driving sector - &nbsp;the industry has recognised this need and has responded by increasing flexibility in scheduling, adopting more driver-friendly policies, such as reduced overnight stays, and offering more predictable hours. We&rsquo;ve also seen advancements in remote monitoring and electronic documentation, simplifying administrative tasks to free up more time for drivers to spend with their loved ones. Returning to the profession now means enjoying a greater degree of work-life balance and personal fulfilment.
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Your perfect role awaits you
Returning to the profession now presents an abundance of opportunities and benefits for experienced drivers. So, dust off those keys, fuel up your passion for the open road, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with endless possibilities. And if you need any help in looking for that ideal role, we&rsquo;ve got you covered. Welcome back!
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The thriving road ahead: why returning to the HGV profession in 2023 is a wise move

Finding the right recruitment agency or business to source your next temporary driving role is essential for your career as a professional driver. A good provider can offer you better opportunities, fair compensation, and a supportive work environment. On the other hand, a poor choice can lead to frustration, low-quality jobs, and potentially harmful working conditions. In this blog, we will outline key recommendations for HGV drivers on the lookout for a recruiter, highlighting what to look for in a good provider, and identifying red flags to watch out for.
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Reputation and experience
Start by researching the reputation and experience of the agency or business. Look for those with a solid track record in the industry, preferably those with a long-standing presence and positive reviews from drivers. Seek recommendations from other drivers, browse online forums, and consult industry associations for insights into their reputation. A good provider will have a history of satisfied drivers and positive relationships with reputable businesses.
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Fair pay and benefits
One of the most critical factors when selecting a provider is the pay and benefits they offer. Ensure that the they provide fair pay rates that align with industry standards and inquire about additional benefits such as overtime pay, holiday pay, sick pay, and pension schemes; transparent payment processes and clear communication on rates and deductions are also essential. Beware of providers that consistently offer subpar remuneration or have a reputation for payment delays.
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Health and safety practices
The well-being of drivers should be a top priority for any reputable recruiter or HR department. Inquire about their health and safety practices, including how they ensure compliance with relevant regulations. Ask about driver training programs, safety equipment provisions, and support for work-related injuries. A good provider will prioritise driver safety and provide ongoing support to mitigate risks on the job. Any indication of negligence or disregard for safety should be seen as a major red flag.
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Communication and support
A good recruitment agency or business should provide reliable and effective communication channels for drivers, they should be responsive, transparent, and accessible. They should be readily available to address any concerns or queries you may have. Consider how they handle issues such as scheduling conflicts, contract changes, or disputes with clients. Prompt and satisfactory resolution of problems is indicative of a provider that values its drivers.
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Contractual terms and conditions
It&rsquo;s good practice to review contractual terms and conditions provided by the agency or business before committing to any temporary role. Pay close attention to clauses related to notice periods, termination policies, and payment terms, and watch out for overly restrictive contracts or conditions that seem unfair or unreasonable. Seek legal advice if necessary to ensure you understand your rights and obligations under the agreement.
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We might be right up your street&hellip;
Choosing the right employment agency is crucial for drivers seeking a temporary or permanent role. Remember, your career and well-being are at stake, and partnering with a reputable and supportive provider can significantly enhance your professional journey. Here at Driving Force Recruitment we place a high priority on the preferences of our candidates and strive to match them with employment opportunities that are aligned to their own values and goals. So if you&rsquo;re on the lookout for a new opportunity, <a href="../../../../../../job-seekers-get-in-touch/">give us a call today</a> to see how we can help get you out on the open road.

Key recommendations for HGV drivers choosing a recruitment agency or business

Introduction:
In today's fast-changing world, the demand for highly skilled professionals in various industries continues to rise. And one such field that offers exciting opportunities and stable employment is (believe it or not) the driving sector. HGV drivers play a crucial role in keeping our economy moving, and their expertise is in high demand. If you're looking for a rewarding career with flexibility, job security, and the chance to explore the open road, training to become an HGV driver might be the perfect choice for you.
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1. A Thriving Industry:
The transport and logistics industry is an essential pillar of the economy, and it relies heavily on HGV drivers to ensure the smooth transportation of goods across the UK and beyond. The demand for qualified HGV drivers remains constant, providing a steady stream of job opportunities for those entering the field. From transporting goods to different locations to working with international logistics companies, HGV drivers enjoy a diverse range of employment options.
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2. Competitive Salary and Benefits:
A career as an HGV driver can be financially rewarding. HGV drivers often receive a competitive salary, and many companies offer additional benefits, such as pension plans, healthcare coverage, and paid leave. With experience and a good track record, drivers can earn even higher wages, making it an attractive career choice for those seeking stability and financial security.
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3. Flexibility and Independence:
For those who value autonomy and a flexible work-life balance, becoming an HGV driver can offer the perfect combination of freedom and responsibility. HGV drivers often have the flexibility to choose their working hours, routes, and destinations, allowing them to tailor their schedules to their needs. This sought after level of independence provides an opportunity to strike a healthy work-life balance and spend more time doing things they enjoy.
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4. Travel and Exploration:
If you have an adventurous spirit and a love for the open road, a career as an HGV driver can offer unparalleled opportunities for travel and exploration. As an HGV driver, you'll have the chance to visit different cities, towns, even countries, experiencing diverse cultures and landscapes along the way. Every day can be an adventure, filled with new sights, sounds, and experiences.
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5. Constant Learning and Development:
Training to become an HGV driver not only equips you with the necessary driving skills but also opens doors to continuous learning and professional development. From honing your driving techniques to staying updated with regulations and safety protocols, the industry offers a wealth of training programs and certifications to enhance your skills and career prospects. With ongoing training, you can expand your knowledge base and increase your employability in the field.
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Conclusion:
Becoming an HGV driver is more than just a job; it's a gateway to a fulfilling and dynamic career. The driving sector offers stability, competitive salaries, and a sense of freedom that few other professions can match. With the industry's continuous growth and demand for skilled professionals, now is an excellent time to embark on this journey. So, what are you waiting for? Embrace the open road, shape a rewarding career as an HGV driver, and give us a call today.

Why consider becoming an HGV driver: unlocking new horizons

So, you've got your eyes on a company, and you want to know if it's the right fit for you? In this blog post, we'll explore the art of researching a company with the aim of not only learning more about them, but also positioning yourself as an informed and engaged candidate when applying for a job. So, let's roll up our sleeves and uncover the most effective ways to research a company.
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1. Company website 🚀
Best place to start? The company's official website! Look for an "About Us" or "Our Story" section. It&rsquo;s where you&rsquo;ll find the company's mission, vision, and what makes them tick.
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2. Social media stalk 🕵️&zwj;♀️🕵️
Time to get social! Check out the company's social media profiles: LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram &ndash; a lot of companies even have a TikTok account these days! Scroll through their posts, comments, and interactions. You'll get a feel for their culture and how they engage with their audience.
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3. Review roundup 🌐
Head to Glassdoor or Indeed for some behind-the-scenes scoop. They&rsquo;re both great tools for prospective candidates, where employees spill the tea about their work experiences, the company's leadership, and even salary insights.
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4. News nook 📰
News outlets are your friends. Google the company's name followed by "news" or "press releases." It&rsquo;s always a good idea to find out if their name has cropped up in any recent stories, from recent developments, awards, or major announcements &ndash; it's all there.
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5. Networking nirvana 👥
LinkedIn is not just for job hunting. Use it to connect with current or former employees by sending them a friendly message &ndash; people love to share their experiences. Think of it as your own personal company tour guide😏
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6. Culture code crack 🎨
Some companies proudly showcase their culture codes. Look for terms like "values," "culture," or "employee experience&rdquo; and you&rsquo;ll get a sense of their underlying ethos and what makes them tick.
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7. Community check 👥
See if the company supports community initiatives or charity events. It will give you a sense of what they're really about and whether their values match yours.
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8. Ask away&nbsp;🤔
If you've got an interview lined up, don't hesitate to ask questions about company culture and recent developments. It shows you've done your homework, are genuinely interested in the role and gives you the opportunity to figure out if the job is a good match and what they&rsquo;re all about.
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9. Gut check ✨
Lastly (and probably the most important!): trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right or align with your values, it might not be the one. Your gut feeling is like a built-in compass, so pay attention and go with what feels right.
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Aptos',sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">And there you have it &ndash; your ultimate guide to becoming a company detective. Now go forth, gather your intel, and make an informed decision. Best of luck on your job-seeking adventure!<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; font-family: 'Segoe UI Emoji',sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Segoe UI Emoji'; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">🍀

Unlocking the secrets: a job seeker's guide to company research

Learning the skills needed to land a new job is often just as crucial as learning how to excel in your potential career. Whether it&rsquo;s mastering the art of networking, acing job applications, or crafting a killer CV, there&rsquo;s always something candidates can be doing to make sure they&rsquo;re completely prepared. But, perhaps almost everyone&rsquo;s achilles heel in pursuit of the perfect role is nailing the most nerve-wracking aspect of the job hunt itself: the dreaded interview.
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Navigating interviews, especially in a new field, can be tough and practice and preparation are crucial steps you can take to make sure you ace that interview. But what if you don&rsquo;t have anyone with whom you can practice common interview questions? Let us introduce to you, Google&rsquo;s Interview Warm-up. The tech giant has teamed up with job seekers to create a this nifty little tool, designed to help you practice responding to questions handpicked by industry pros.
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But how does it actually work?
Using clever machine learning, it transcribes your answers and provides insights on how to level up your responses. We know prepping for interviews always requires effort, but Google&rsquo;s aim is to make it a tad easier so candidates feel more self-assured and at ease while acing their interviews.
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With Interview Warmup, your answers are instantly written down so you can check what you said. As an added bonus, you get insights &ndash; tips from smart tech that can help you uncover details about your answers, like the job-related words you use regularly and your main talking points such as your experience, skills, and goals. And although it was designed with Google Career Certificates students in mind, it's open to everyone and includes general questions suitable for various fields. It even shows how much time you spend discussing each topic in your response. And the best part? Your answers aren't graded or judged, and you can practice as many times as you like. It's like your own private practice arena!
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Why not give Interview Warm-Up a shot? It could be just the ticket to levelling up your interview prep.
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Check it out here: <a class="fui-Link ___10kug0w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" title="https://grow.google/certificates/interview-warmup/" href="https://grow.google/certificates/interview-warmup/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Link https://grow.google/certificates/interview-warmup/">https://grow.google/certificates/interview-warmup/</a>

Elevate your interview skills: Google's Interview Warm-Up

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                Operating from one of our five regional branches across England, our consultants are on hand to offer tailored support and local knowledge for all your driver recruitment needs.                

<h2>Benefits</h2>So, the core values sound like a good fit for you – but what else is on offer?<ul><li>25 days holidays plus bank holidays</li><li>An additional ½ day on your birthday</li><li>Vouchers on your work anniversary to say thank you from us</li><li>Industry-leading bonus scheme</li><li>Private medical insurance (after qualifying period)</li><li>Cycle to work scheme</li><li>Annual company awards event</li></ul>What are you waiting for? We’d love to hear from you.*An additional 1/2 day holiday on your birthday

‘As our business grows, so does our need for great people to join us’It’s hardly surprising that happy employees stay in their job an average four times longer than their unhappy counterparts. It’s one of the reasons we work hard to create a fun, supportive workplace where our employees can thrive.

We’re always on the lookout for people who embody our core values: driven to deliver; focused on solutions; respectful relationships. Do these sound like bit of you? Then check out our <a href="/jobs/internal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">current internal vacancies</a>. But don’t worry if nothing catches your eye right now – just get in touch with your local branch, we’re more than happy to consider you for any future vacancies!

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<h5>Our branches offer regional coverage.</h5>Get in touch with the team who are most local to you; either give them a call or drop your message in the get in touch form.

Looking for recruitment support? Maybe you’re after one or two ad hoc drivers, or perhaps you need a fleet full – whatever your requirements, we are here to recruit the right people for you.
Operating from one of our six regional branches across England, our consultants are on hand to offer tailored support and local knowledge for all your driver recruitment needs.
Our teams are made up of sector specialists – in fact, many of our consultants are HGV licence and CPC certificate holders, so they know exactly what it’s like out on the road. This means you’ll always be talking to someone who understands your business language.&nbsp;
We are geared up to deliver real partnerships, focused on meeting the needs of all our clients. Because it’s about more than just having enough staff – we care about providing you with the best staffing solutions, whilst maintaining a compliant service that truly reflects your company culture. <a href="https://www.driving-force.co.uk/employers-get-in-touch/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Let’s have a conversation today about how we can support you.</a>
And, whilst we’re not ones for making it all about us, we understand that you might want to know a little bit about who we are before deciding whether we’re the right fit for your business.
So, if you’re after a quick intro have a watch of the video below to find out how we’ve grown from the original specialist division of our parent company, gap personnel group, supporting our colleagues in Flint, to the national specialist driving provider we are today.

Our dedicated teams are geared up to deliver quality and always go the extra mile. We never settle for complacency, constantly challenging ourselves to bring that first-class service you deserve.

Meeting your needs is our priority. We’ll listen and use our industry experience to provide objective advice and a personal service, putting you in the driving seat.

Having a reliable, trustworthy agency is key to successful collaboration and achieving common goals. Let’s enjoy the journey together, and build a genuine working relationship based on mutual respect and open communication.

<h2>Talk to us about Driver CPC training</h2>
We&rsquo;re a fully qualified driving school able to support drivers through their initial and ongoing periodic training. You can find out more <a href="/employers-specialisms/cpc-training/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.

Recruit staff let us help you fill your next role

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<h5>Vision</h5>
By delivering unmatched dedication to customer service and satisfaction we will become the first-choice destination for drivers and customers seeking a trusted recruitment partner

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<h5>Mission</h5>
To be the driving force behind speedy and compliant recruitment solutions with a personalised approach through nurturing long-term relationships with all of our people

Driver CPC training aims to enhance road safety, improve driver skills, and ensure professional standards amongst commercial drivers.

All our drivers have already obtained their initial Driver CPC qualification, having completed a theory test, practical driving test, and a case study test, and undertaking 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to maintain their qualification.

But did you know we’re a fully qualified driving school for CPC training? We’re committed to helping drivers stay up to date with safe driving practices, so if you’d like us to support your new recruits through their initial training, or ensure your experienced drivers continue to improve their skills with their periodic modules, we’re here to help. 

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<h2>Talk to us about Driver CPC training</h2>We’re a fully qualified driving school able to support you through your initial and ongoing periodic training. You can find out more <a href="/job-seekers-specialisms/cpc-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

<h2>Is job hunting driving you up the wall?</h2>Well, you'll be glad you've arrived here. People come back to us time and time again because we know that it's more than just finding the right driving 'job'We're 'people' people through and through who appreciate that our drivers are at the centre of everything we do. Whether you enjoy the flexibility of temporary work, or you're looking for the stability of a permanent placement, we've got you covered. If you're looking for career acceleration with a team who cares, you've come to the right place!With all sorts of roles to suit your schedule, we're confident we can help you find your perfect fit - and put you in the drivers seat.It's just a case of giving one of our <a href="/job-seekers-get-in-touch/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">local teams a call</a> or check out our<a href="/jobs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> jobs page</a> and have a scroll through the driving roles currently available.Our core values embody everything we do here at Driving Force Recruitment; just take a look at them below...

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Our branches offer regional coverage so get in touch with the team that are most local to you; either give them a call or if you’ve got vacancy needs drop your message in the get in touch form

To work with our clients all of our drivers must have already obtained their initial Driver CPC qualification, including the theory test, practical driving test, and case study test, undertaking 35 hours of periodic training every 5 years to maintain their qualification.

But did you know we’re a fully qualified driving school for CPC training? We’re committed to helping you stay up to date with safe driving practices, so if you’d like us to support you through your initial training, or ensure you continue to improve your skills with approved periodic training modules, we’re here to help.

<h2>Talk to us about Driver CPC training</h2>We’re a fully qualified driving school able to support drivers through their initial and ongoing periodic training. You can find out more <a href="/job-seekers-specialisms/cpc-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.

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<h6>Get in touch</h6><ul><li>We are on hand - no matter how big or small your driver needs.</li><li>It’s our job to listen to you so that we can provide the best solution for your business requirements – whether that’s ad hoc driver support or a full, preferred supplier review, it’s just a case of letting us know.</li><li>Drop us your vacancy needs below and we’ll get back to you – we’re available 7 days a week. Or head over to our contacts page and <a href="https://www.driving-force.co.uk/employers-get-in-touch/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">get in touch </a>with your local branch today.</li></ul>

No matter what your driving needs may be, we've got you covered. Our team comprises of highly skilled professionals, driven by innovation and backed by over 100+ years of collective expertise in the industry. Whether you're seeking experienced drivers or seeking employment opportunities, we are here to provide dedicated assistance and support.