Hiring Messengers
Messengers are individual workers who collect information, mail, and packages and deliver them to specific locations. The deliveries are made either by foot, bike, vehicles, or by public transportation. They ensure that the delivery is fulfilled safely, confidentially, and on time. Messengers primarily are employed by messenger and courier companies or as office staff in large businesses. Some even work as sole proprietors of their own business. The average salary offered for entry-level positions is $30,000 annually, with experienced professionals earning an average of $45,000 per year. Messengers working in offices are usually promoted to the position of mailroom clerks with the right experience. With new businesses and firms needing messenger services, the demand for messengers is projected to increase by up to 9% over 5 years, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates.
What the role entails
The main goal of a messenger is to pick up and deliver packages. In order to accomplish this task, they have to perform various duties and responsibilities. To start with, they should clarify the scheduled deliveries before each shift. They should fetch, check, and sign for the packages at the collection point. When loading the items, they should take special care to avoid any damage. The messengers should plan and devise the most effective route for delivery. Apart from this, they are required to answer any queries from the recipient and ensure that they sign all relevant documents upon delivery. These workers are also responsible for updating the supervisor once all allocated work is completed for the day. In case any deliveries were not fulfilled, the messengers are required to update the line manager accordingly for a reschedule. In addition, they keep accurate logs or records for ordered deliveries and verification. Since the job requires customer interfacing, they should be friendly and helpful when working.
Necessary skills and abilities
Job seekers interested in becoming messengers gain experience via part-time or summer internships with companies in their area. Employers usually seek candidates who are 21 years of age and have a high school diploma. Some employers require the applicant to have a valid driver’s license if the role requires them to operate a motor vehicle. Previous experience in any delivery position is preferred but not mandatory. The ideal candidate must be familiar with the layout and routes of the delivery area. To be successful, the candidate must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills along with the ability to multi-task within a given time frame. They must have good planning and decision-making abilities so that they can efficiently manage all deliveries. The candidate must also be physically agile and be able to remain active for an extended duration. Applicants must be open to working evening shifts, weekends, and public holidays. Most importantly, employers look for candidates who are trustworthy and reliable.
