SvenskaA night as a distributor
What is the weirdest thing that has happened during distribution and how does a normal night as a distributor look like? We have interviewed Pernilla that has been working as a distributor for 7 years and also as a supervisor
Why did you apply to the work as a distributor?
The opportunity to work extra during night and at the same time have the day free for studies and other things you would like to do daytime.
Tell us about a normal night as a distributor?
I normally check the weather report and fill up my water bottle before going to the pick-up place, there I log in to my handheld device to signal that I have arrived. Meanwhile I load the wagon/car and sort possible post, I also talk with my colleagues before we all leave to our separate rounds. If something is missing or if something unexpected happens during distribution I call the supervisor or the office to get help, but mostly everything runs smoothly and I distribute according to the e-list. I often listen to radio or an audio book during my distribution. When I am done with everything I signal through logging out from my handheld device. On my way home I stop at the environment station to throw away any excess plastic or paper. After that I eat a well-earned breakfast at home and get a few hours of sleep.
Weirdest/funniest thing that has ever happened to you during distribution?
I can´t come up with anything special like that, but one morning when I came out all my papers were up on the roof of the bus shelter where I pick my post up – some bored and waiting bus travellers probably had some fun! I work a bit outside of town so mostly I am amazed by the magical sunrises and curious for legged friends such as deers and foxes that sometimes come very close. Faithful subscribers that are alert in the mornings, waiting by their post box and offers a cup of coffee and a little chat is always fun and nice, as well as Christmas gifts and greeting from happy customers in Christmas times.
When you tell people that you work as a distributor, what is their reaction?
Is it not difficult to get up in the middle of the night? How is it to work alone when it is dark outside? Many people think that the work we distributors do is admirable. What a service to get the paper delivered to your door before 6 AM, no matter the weather!
What is the best thing about working as a distributor?
The independence, it is fast and that you move.
As a supervisor: what do you think people should ask you?
- There are many good questions but here are a few:
- What do I do to avoid complaints?
- How do I best protect the products from bad weather?
- What do I do to get enough sleep when I work during night?
- What do I do if I encounter a dangerous person?
What is it that surprises new distributors with the job?
That it actually is quite a lot that you need to have in mind and learn before you get to work by yourself as a distributor. Many are surprised that we can walk more than a mile on a district and above the morning newspapers also distribute post, advertise and civic information.
What is your best tips to new distributors?
Keep updated through reading messages, information and instructions in your handheld device. Work safely, make sure that you are visible in the dark – order a lamp and reflex west from the office.
Many thanks to Pernilla for her answers as to how it is to work as a distributor.