Name: Sharon Whitelaw

How long have you been with the company: 4 years and 5 months

Job Role: Bus Driver

Where did you find the job advertisement to apply for the role?

My daughter applied to Stagecoach herself, and was accepted on to their training programme. She herself passed her training and her PSV driving test. I thought this was something I myself would like to do, so also applied and was accepted onto their training programme also.

Why did you want to work for the company?

After hearing about the company and the offer of in house training to enable me to gain my PSV licence, and hearing about the job role of a bus driver, It appealed to me immediately. The company also offered opportunities to enable you to achieve your full potential and progress into the management side of things should you wish to, whilst being given full support.

What interested you about the industry?

Stagecoach is one of the biggest bus companies, and as I wanted to pursue the career of a bus driver, this is the main company operating from the vicinity of where I live. That, and the benefit of pretty much being your own boss, and incentives offered.

Can you describe a typical day for you?

I work 12 hour shifts, which is my own choice, as there are numerous rota’s available to choose from. I arrive at my depot to be signed in and get given my duty sheet for the day. This tells me what bus number I will be driving and what service runs I shall be operating. I am solely responsible of doing a 10 minute walk round check of my bus, to identify any safety and operational defects. Once this is completed, I then drive to the bus station where I can then pick up my passengers and proceed to my destination. I am responsible for handling cash and card payments and am there to give advice to customers. Throughout the day, I may have to change which bus I drive. I meet a lot of different people from all walks of life, and sometimes have to deal with some challenging situations. My predominant job is to drive a bus, but my role as a bus driver is far more than just that. No two days are the same. It is varied, and can be very interesting and sometimes challenging.  I am responsible for my bus, my passengers, other road users, and pedestrians.

What qualities do you bring to the role?

I am an outgoing person, and can converse with anyone. I feel I am calm, when under pressure, and very much a team player, and have a good sense of humour. I remain professional at all times, and am a conscientious and careful driver. Customer service and satisfaction is high on my agenda.

What is difficult about your role?

Sticking to the bus times is often difficult, as traffic congestion, roadworks and accidents can pop up at anytime. Dealing with angry passengers can be very challenging, as can other drivers that get impatient.

What is the best thing about working at the company?

The company offers a lot of in house training, incentives and opportunities, whilst offering a very competitive salary.

Why would you recommend working in the industry?

As a bus driver, no two days are the same. It is varied and unpredictable. I get to meet a wide variety of different people, the salary is fair, I am given support when required but also given the responsibility to work and operate on my own.