Janitors are responsible for keeping premises such as schools, offices, and stores clean. Their job description falls under the category of building maintenance.
The role of a janitor in the community is paramount because janitors ensure that everyone lives in a clean environment free of dust and spills. Janitors also make sure that trash bins are always empty at the right time.
Skills that are necessary to secure janitorial jobs
There is no formal training required for employment as a janitor. However, entry-level janitors work under the supervision of highly experienced staff members. As a new janitor, you have to pay attention to what your supervisor tells you so that you do not make any mistakes.
Additionally, you have to be a fast learner so that you can finally work without supervision.
Moreover, the following skills are necessary:
1. Physical endurance
The job mostly involves a lot of pushing, lifting, walking, and bending all day. Physical fitness is necessary if you are to cope with this job.
2. A positive social demeanor
In most cases, a janitor handles problems such as spills that require immediate action. It means you might have to work during office hours when many people are around the building.
Interacting with them requires patience and friendliness. Remember, you can request for shifts that are after working hours in case you are not a people person.
3. Flexibility when it comes to working hours
In most cases, companies offering janitorial services want you there during regular working hours. However, some firms will require your services during odd hours. Therefore, you should be highly flexible when it comes to time i.e. be available anytime your services are necessary. On average, you will be working 40 hours per week.
4. You should be comfortable wearing uniform
Some employers will provide uniforms for their janitorial team. Others will require that you stick to a specific dress code. Whatever the case, you should be ready. While attending a janitorial job interview, always look professional. For example, wear official clothes for the interview.
5. Integrity is critical
A high level of integrity is necessary for this type of work. Remember, you will work independently and without supervision. That means you have to exercise self-discipline for you to deliver excellent results each time.
6. Working knowledge
Knowing how to handle cleaning chemicals and supplies is important, as is the ability to handle heavy equipment and machinery.
7. Work experience
Finally, prior experience working as a janitor is an additional advantage when you are looking for this kind of job. However, entry-level employees can still work under the supervision of experienced staff members until they gain the experience they need to perform janitorial tasks independently.