With the growing driver shortage problem, fleets need to do everything they can to attract qualified and skilled individuals. While there is no one simple equation for running a successful fleet, some fleets have figured out common factors to recruit and retain talented drivers. The following are elements that help create and sustain a successful fleet.

Make Drivers Feel Included

Most truck drivers spend their time on the road away from the main trucking company office. This can make them feel isolated or like a vendor rather than a valued employee. Fleets can make drivers feel like an appreciated part of the team by building meaningful connections.

Seeking Drivers’ Input

Gathering feedback from drivers is a standard operating procedure for most fleets. However, impersonal surveys don’t make drivers feel included and the results of the surveys aren’t always obvious. For example, drivers may list their concerns and the company may address the majority of them but leave perceived less important items for later. Without communication, the drivers will have no idea why the company made the decision and can feel like their opinions don’t matter. Innovative ways to make drivers feel involved and valued include:

  • Holding breakfast meetings before drivers leave for the day so they can discuss company concerns and goals.
  • Asking drivers about their motivations for achieving certain performance goals. Many reviews focus solely on the numbers, which can make drivers feel like a statistic. Motivation-driven goals can reveal opportunities for improvement across the fleet as well.
  • Allowing drivers to evaluate their employer during their review. This provides valuable insight into where fleet management is succeeding and where they need to improve to retain drivers.

Bringing Teams Together

Many fleets keep their office staff and their drivers in separate silos. This creates a divided workforce and can engender an us vs. them mentality. By keeping all fleet staff in the same area, the team members can meet and interact with each other. For example, a driver who has to call an individual in the office on a regular basis is much more likely to work better with that person if they meet and get to know one and other.

Managing a successful fleet goes beyond finances. Without a solid workforce, the trucking business will crumble. If your fleet is struggling, DriverCheck can help. We provide top of the line driving training and safety solutions to help your fleet. Contact us to learn more.