How parental advice shapes career choices – Jordan’s journey into logistics

Contrary to popular belief, parents have a significant influence on the career paths their children choose, and this couldn’t be more true for 25-year-old Jordan Shelvey, who followed her mother’s footsteps into the logistics industry.

The power of parental influence
According to our recent survey, 75% of Brits value their parents’ advice when making career decisions. Millennials (77%) lead the way, closely followed by Gen Z (73%), proving that despite the generational gap, parents’ voices are still ringing loud and clear when it comes to choosing a career.

Jordan Shelvey is a prime example of how parental guidance can shape a professional path. Growing up immersed in the world of logistics, Jordan recalls being “in a lorry before I could even walk or talk!” Her mum, Shelvey Haulage, who co-founded the family’s business, became her biggest inspiration.

At just 16, Jordan officially joined the business, learning the ins and outs of the logistics sector directly from her parents. Fast forward nine years, and she’s now the Executive Manager of Shelvey Haulage, playing an active role in advocating for the industry through her work with the Road Haulage Association (RHA).

A career in logistics: Why Jordan loves It

For anyone uncertain about their career, Jordan shares this advice: Listen to your parents. “They know you better than anyone,” she says. Her mother helped her recognise strengths she hadn’t even realised she had, and guided her towards a career in logistics, a field she now absolutely loves.

“It’s such a rewarding profession,” Jordan explains. “No two days are the same, and every day brings a sense of accomplishment. Logistics offers so many opportunities for people with different skills. It’s an industry where you’re constantly growing.”

A path full of opportunities

Our research also revealed that more than half of Brits (55%) don’t know what career they want during their school years, often turning to parents for guidance. As the logistics sector continues to evolve, there are countless roles that align with different strengths and skill sets. Whether you’re a problem-solver, a people person, or someone who thrives on organisation, logistics offers a variety of exciting careers.

Discover your future in logistics
If you’re wondering which career might suit your strengths, why not take our Find Your Future quiz? It’s a great way to explore the roles available in logistics and see how your unique skills could fit into this exciting industry.

Whether you’re just starting out or considering a career change, logistics might just be the perfect fit for you, just like it was for Jordan.