Warehouse work has a bit of a bad reputation. People worry that the job will boring, repetitive, and physically demanding. But we think warehouse jobs have a lot more to offer than people realise. Take a look at some of the misconceptions people have about warehouse jobs, and how we think these misconceptions are actually positives for anyone looking for a new, exciting career.
It’s Physically Demanding
It’s true that if you work in a warehouse, you are on your feet throughout the day. You are walking, bending, lifting, you are in motion. But doesn’t that feel like the natural form for work? We are meant to be moving around while working, and sitting down while resting afterwards. Instead, many people sit hunched over in an office chair all day at work. Then they sit in their car to drive home, and then sit in front of the tv to decompress from work, and then lay in bed. This kind of sedentary lifestyle does not keep you fit!
If you’re not the type of person who enjoys being stuck behind a desk all day, and you like the hustle and bustle of a busy work environment, warehouse work could be an ideal fit for you.
It’s a Dead-End Job
In contrast, there is plenty of opportunity for promotion in the warehouse industry. You can climb the ranks to quality assurer, supervisor, auditor, and even jobs outside the warehouse but within the same company. We have had many learners who have started their warehouse career on the shop floor at an entry-level position, then moved on to much higher-paid positions within a matter of months due to their positive attitudes and desire to progress. Furthermore, with companies like Amazon, Next, Tesco, UPS, ASOS etc constantly developing new sites for their ever-expanding operations, the ability to get a job and progress up the career ladder has never been easier.
It’s Boring
Many people think that warehouse work is repetitive and therefore mind-numbing. Au contraire! Time goes by very quickly, because there is always something to do. There is no time to stand around and stare at the clock while working in a warehouse (unless it’s your break!).
For people who enjoy being active at work, often warehouse jobs are a great option. You are working in a fun and energetic workplace, with like-minded people. In warehouse jobs, no two days are ever the same – which is a great mix for people who hate being stuck behind a screen all day in an office.
It’s Not a Job You Can be Proud of
Warehouse worker doesn’t carry the same prestige as a doctor or lawyer. That’s largely because of the low barrier to entry. It’s true that you don’t need years of training or fancy degrees to pick up work in a warehouse, but that is a good thing! It also pays well (average starting pay of £10.26 an hour, and can go much higher with experience) and is essential to the supply chain that keeps society up and running.
During the pandemic, it became clear to everyone who the unsung heroes of society were – the ones who keep us fed, clothed and our homes full of nice things. Those who worked on the front line, including supermarket workers, delivery drivers and warehouse workers played a vital role in keeping the economy (and society in general) moving. We know many ex-learners who are incredibly proud of the work they do in warehousing – and we couldn’t agree more!
Conclusion
So there you have it, there are our 4 misconceptions to warehouse work that could be putting you off starting your new career in warehousing. We hope you have enjoyed reading this article, and we have dispelled some common myths you may have thought were true of warehousing.
If you think a career in warehousing could be something you could see yourself doing, why not get in touch today and talk to one of our advisors to see if it’s a good fit for you? What’s more, if you are currently unemployed and on Universal Credit, the training could be 100% fully funded, meaning you pay absolutely nothing.
