Dorset

Why did you decide bus driving was for you?

I’d always enjoyed driving and getting out and about.  I’m not the type of person who can be in an office all day, it would drive me mad.  Getting out and keeping busy is what I enjoy.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

It’s got to be meeting so many different people – some of which I know on first name terms now!  It’s also about being your own boss.  There’s no one looking over your shoulder and you manage your own day – it’s great.

Ok so what do you not enjoy?!

Sometimes other road users can make you cross and wind you up.  You do see some outrageous things – but being professional is about doing the right thing and you just have to relax and think of your passengers, they are the ones paying and you do the right thing to keep them safe and happy.

What was the training like when you joined First Hampshire and Dorset?

The training was good and all the people I met were very supportive.  I spent 7 weeks in the training school. Firstly, I completed an induction to the company and then the next three weeks was spent with my instructor getting my PCV licence and then out with a buddy driver learning the routes and the different vehicles.

Any advice for people considering becoming a bus driver?

It’s a good job and you’ll enjoy it but only if you really enjoy meeting and serving customers and you can stay calm under pressure. You’ll also need to be able to think quickly and use your own initiative as it can become quite tense at times.  Some people think that when you have passed your test you’re a bus driver – no way, I‘ve been doing the job for 12 years and I’m still learning!

Interested in becoming a bus driver in Hampshire and Dorset?

If so call our recruitment Hotline: 0845 65 00 014 or apply online.