If you are preparing to start down your first career path or are considering making a change, wondering if a general labor job is right for you is common. Like any profession, not everyone knows the nuances of the roles until they’ve tried on themselves, which can make it hard to determine if it is actually a good fit.
Luckily, there are several features that are common in general labor positions. By understanding what they require, you can better judge if it is a path you would like to pursue. If you want to figure out if being a general laborer is the right option for you, here’s what you need to know.
General Labor Is a Big Category
First and foremost, it is important to understand the “general laborer” title can mean different things, depending on the employer. In some cases, it could involve warehouse work. In others, the job may focus more on packaging, maintenance or production.
What general labor jobs tend to have in common is that the work is physical in nature. You’ll usually spend most of your day on your feet, may need to do some heavy lifting, bending, leaning or twisting throughout the day is common.
Also, you’ll complete most of your duties with your hands. While tools and equipment may also be present, many of them are at least somewhat hand operated. How much manual dexterity is required depends on the nature of the work, as some do rely heavily on fine motor skills, while others do not.
Is a General Labor Job Right for You?
Whether you would enjoy a general labor job depends on a few factors. Since the tasks are usually physical, individuals who enjoy moving and like to stay active are more likely to excel in these positions than individuals who would rather work at a desk.
Most general labor positions are part of larger teams. If you like working closely with others and the idea of being part of a bigger team is appealing, a general labor job might be right up your alley.
Often, the environment in which general laborers work isn’t overly formal. While you may need to select attire based on safety requirements – like steel-toed boots in certain industrial companies – the dress code is typically a bit informal outside of those must-haves. If the idea of wearing a suit and tie or other similar attire doesn’t appeal to you, working as a general laborer may be a better match than an office position.
Finally, general laborer jobs can start you on the path toward a lucrative career. It isn’t uncommon to have opportunities to acquire new skills while you are working, giving you a chance to move up with your current employer or seek out exciting opportunities elsewhere. You may even have a chance to join the management team, allowing you to be a leader in an industrial environment.
While general labor jobs aren’t right for everyone, they can be a great fit for others. If you would like to learn more about existing open positions, the staff at The Advance Group can help you explore your options. Contact us to speak with one of our skilled recruiters today and see how our services can make it easier than ever to find the right general labor job for you.
