Royal mail full-time contacts a thing of the past?

Paul89 · Post by **Paul89** » 15 Jun 2016, 18:08

I'm thinking about quitting my apprenticeship to become a postman but ive read due to restructuring they no longer give out full-time contracts which would put a lot of pressure on me to get overtime since I'd make less than I already do. Is it also true that it's virtually impossible for a postman to move up and get promoted?I really do think I'd like the job it's just I've been worrying a lot since I looked into the job and I have two more years of my apprenticeship.

Post by **TrueBlueTerrier** » 15 Jun 2016, 18:23

My advice - stick with the apprenticeship.

Royal Mail is going through big changes and whilst I really enjoy the job and would recommend it to anyone you won't get any formal qualifications to fall back on when you leave.

Check out RM in a few years, depending on what your apprenticeship is it may help later on.

RM do not take anyone on full time straight from the street anymore, and haven't for over a decade, but it is relatively easy once you're in to become a manager but it would take some time to become a substantive one rather than an acting manager.

Paul89 · Post by **Paul89** » 15 Jun 2016, 21:39

I'm actually doing a painter decorator apprenticeship so it definitely wouldn't help in the royal mail. Although I'm not happy I think it's quite risky to switch right now if things didn't work out, thanks for the advice

wannabeek · Post by **wannabeek** » 15 Jun 2016, 22:32

You may be mistaken about it not helping with the Royal Mail. Generally, what is required for this job is a proven ability to turn up on time consistently and not be under influence of drink or drugs. Hold down any apprenticeship well and you can use that experience to get a job with Royal Mail in the future if you still want to. It is unlikely that the reverse is true - if you could prove yourself as a postman it probably wouldn't set you up for a career as a painter decorator if you were to change your mind in the other direction.

Basically, I'd recommend sticking with the apprenticeship as it would most likely set you up better for whatever you choose to do eventually.

Paul89 · Post by **Paul89** » 16 Jun 2016, 09:27

I dont mind waiting two years to get a full-time contract, I wouldn't expect to get one from the start but if there isn't much chance of me ever getting one it's different.

Post by **TrueBlueTerrier** » 16 Jun 2016, 13:44

Paul89 wrote:I don't mind waiting two years to get a full-time contract, I wouldn't expect to get one from the start but if there isn't much chance of me ever getting one it's different.

getting one in 2 years is not impossible, although it's improbable. Lads at my office have been waiting for 8 - 10 years.

Wallsince70 · Post by **Wallsince70** » 16 Jun 2016, 20:26

I have an interview on Wednesday for a part time role of 25 hours per week , I was reading other posts on overtime and was kind of banking on making up to more or less full time hours . Also ultimately after getting a full time contract in time , I'm really in two minds now as another poster mentioned part timers in his office being there 8/10 years and still waiting for a full time contract . I was employed by Royal Mail before in London as a postman for over 11 years .

wannabeek · Post by **wannabeek** » 16 Jun 2016, 22:03

There's no set rule as it entirely depends on your local office. I was made up to full time after only a couple of years but you can't bank on that, it seems that was just lucky circumstance.

Wallsince70 · Post by **Wallsince70** » 18 Jun 2016, 10:18

Been reading various threads on here and it's proved most invaluable, decided to decline the interview with RM . Seems like there's no benefits working for this company now , are there any ? Many thanks.

Post by **TrueBlueTerrier** » 18 Jun 2016, 12:18

Wallsince70 wrote:Been reading various threads on here and it's proved most invaluable, decided to decline the interview with RM . Seems like there's no benefits working for this company now , are there any ? Many thanks.

Relatively early finish compared to other jobs.
You are your own boss when actually out delivering.
Public still appreciate us as can be seen with Xmas tips and drink offers in hot weather.
It's a very rewarding job if you are a people person.
The camaraderie and solidarity are similar to the forces.
The craic is generally very good.
Decent enough pay for the job.
Plenty of opportunities to get odd jobs if you do that sort of thing.
Also you have a lot of opportunities to build up contacts you can use in many ways. Cheap but good work, jobs, tickets etc.

salomon2 · Post by **salomon2** » 18 Jun 2016, 19:10

Definitely finish your apprenticeship as it would be an easy job to add hours and earnings so not relying on overtime. I kept my self employed status for the first year while working at rm on a 25 hr contract. Our office is currently undergoing a revision and may have some extra hours to offer to us but it's not guaranteed and they will be offered on seniority so the last one in doesn't realistically stand much of a chance. Also if you're young and wanting loans or a mortgage then a part time contract may not be enough.