To be or not to be a Conductor..

[LPeter]

Hi all,

I imagine I'm the 509th person to ask the question but I've recently been invited to an assessment for GWR as a Conductor. It's a completely different direction to the other job roles I'm considering for my next move but I find it very intriguing.

I wondered if somebody could give me a realistic idea of a 'day in the life' as its normally somewhat different to how the companies advertise it. I work shifts now and have been Cabin Crew before so I imagine the environment to be fairly similar but wondered if you could share your experiences! Thanks

 

[hughavinalaf]

Its an excellent job and because of the customers,and their various ways......no two days are the same.In regards difficulties,much depends on your attitude and decision making,90% of the job really can be as problematic or as easy as you want it to be.
You'll make good friends and you'll earn a decent wage.Go for it.

 

[Tom Quinne]

During my time at FGW/GWR as a Guard (Conductor) there were a number of ex cabin crew guards, it seemed to be quite a clear move from cabin crew to conductor.

I'd say go for it, it's a great job - although be eyes wide open that it COULD be a short term thing (DCO in 5-10 years).

Keep your nose clean, and move to driving as soon as you can - again a lot of guards go that way.

 

[83G/84D]

Just make sure the train is dispatched correctly,there seem to be quite a lot of incidents of this nature recently with train and platform staff taken off for med-screening.

Better a small delay than a dispatch irregularly in my opinion.

If you have a good personality and enjoy working with people it can be enjoyable if challenging at times.

 

[laps3]

Safety is the number one priority. Always and at all times.
Making sure the passengers know we're there and available if they need us. It can be a challenging role especially at times of disruption where your personality and calm under pressure disposition comes in to play.