Planning ahead often works wonders for those interested in a rewarding career. Applying for a job requires presenting information about your background and experience to a would-be employer. Anyone with a CDL and experience logically targets a stable truck driving job. Long distance trips can pay substantial wages, an excellent reason to explore the possibilities. Passing the commercial driver's license test remains a critical first step, but the license alone doesn't always reflect experience. With the right long-term and short-term planning, someone with an eye on a CDL job might find more options open to them when applying.

Build Up Experience

Experience always counts for a lot. While someone without a CDL cannot legally drive a rig, he/she can build up valuable experience from other driving-related work. No one knows how a potential employee will respond to a particular resume. Consider it safe to say a sparse resume won't appear compelling. Adding relevant content to a resume should become a priority for anyone serious about a career. The following items may build up both a resume and valuable experience:

• Complete Comprehensive CDL Training: Not every driver who acquires a CDL did so after completing a comprehensive CDL license program. A training program that covers both classroom learning and driving on the road could be more impressive to potential employees. The more expansive the training, the higher the chances the driver knows how to handle a rig safely.
• Look into Other Driving Jobs: Working for a car dealership driving cars from one lot to another isn't the same thing as driving a tractor trailer. However, the job does reflect professional driving experience. And, so would opting to work for a ridesharing service. Again, possessing some form of expertise likely comes off better than submitting a sparse resume, even if the experience isn't directly related.
• Maintain a Safe Track Record: Loading and unloading a moving van or small truck involves hard work. The driving part isn't easy either since you must be mindful of the cargo. CDL drivers should always concern themselves with the materials they transport. Who wants to see their cargo lost, damaged, or stolen? A driver with a track record for safely delivering cargo to a destination might be desirable to a potential employer.

Yes, steps such as these require work and commitment. Competition exists for CDL truck driving jobs. Knowing this fact may motivate someone to do what is required for success. Setting yourself apart from the competition increases the chances of landing a job offer. For more information, talk to companies like Bailey Trucking, Inc.