Now more than ever, truck fleets are struggling to find (and keep) qualified drivers. If you want to attract the right drivers and keep them happy, you’ll need to look at what drivers are saying. Recent survey research and stats show what truckers want most from their employers — and it’s time to start listening.
Here are the most important things that truckers care about when it comes to their work and who they work for.
Fair Pay
According to a driver survey conducted by the Commercial Carrier Journal (CCJ), poor pay was the top reason drivers said they thought companies had trouble finding new workers.
Drivers are finding that the pay a company promises before hiring doesn’t always carry through on-the-job. Many truckers say that when they add up the miles they drive, the number rarely adds up in their final pay. Drivers might also end up waiting on reimbursements for different fees that weren’t explained before hire.
Recruiters and companies should explain the pay structure upfront and not promise what they can’t deliver. And, they should listen to what drivers consider fair pay.
Reasonable Benefits and PTO
Health insurance, retirement plans, and time off with family are all critical to truck drivers. Trucking can be a grueling job, not to mention lonely. Like everyone else, drivers desire a work/life balance that allows them to take time away. They understand that the nature of trucking involves sacrifice, but that doesn’t mean the conditions should be miserable.
A lot of truckers are also at the age where they’re thinking about their retirement options. Many also have families they need to support — through health insurance benefits as well as income. Drivers will be looking for benefits that provide stability in their careers and planning for the future.
Good Training and Onboarding
Even seasoned drivers are looking for training when starting a new CDL job. Proper training programs and orientation will help the driver feel confident in their new position. The employer will also create a sense of teamwork and loyalty by supporting drivers (and other employees) from day one.
Office Staff Who “Get It”
Truckers also struggle to connect with office staff who don’t understand drivers’ roles. Drivers mention that they deal with rudeness and lack of respect from in-office employees. Companies can fix this by offering ride-alongs and other chances for staff to connect with drivers.
Listening to Driver Preferences and Opinions
Data from Drive My Way showed that over 4,000 drivers factor in the type of haul when considering their happiness on the job. Companies should consider trucker’s opinions and expertise on different types of haul types, run types, and range.
Not every truck driving job is the same, and employees do their best work when they feel confident in their working conditions. Employers should communicate with drivers about what they prefer, their specializations, and their feelings about industry changes.
For example, equipment changes are expected in trucking. But many drivers are not happy with the increase in regulation. Managers can help by explaining the reasoning behind different decisions and letting truckers give their two cents. Even if equipment changes still happen, drivers will appreciate having a say.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
According to Workhound, drivers often complain about being treated unfairly. It’s crucial to them that the company values their time and needs.
Fleets should take this into account when recruiting drivers. Focus on the overall theme of respect to foster a better work environment from the get-go. Trucking requires a lot — so don’t forget to think about the human side of it all!
It’s more important than ever to know what drivers are looking for to be happy in a company. Does your recruitment strategy match what you’re able to offer and who you want to attract? If you need help, contact AMG Driver Recruitment today.