Truck Driver Safety and Rewards ProgramsRewards programs for company drivers can be effective; however, they fail in many organizations because of one fatal mistake: Many companies think that monetary rewards are the only way to motivate employees.
Studies have found that employees aren’t motivated by financial incentives alone. Therefore, if you want to create a safety-based rewards program, you need to consider other ways of compensating your safe drivers.

What Motivates People?

What motivates people to a high level of performance? Analysis has shown that different people respond to different things.

• Perks: Such things as special parking spots, extra time for lunch or breaks, extra days off
• Public Recognition: Award certificates, plaques, an article about the driver in the company’s newsletter
• Personal Gifts: Bonuses, merchandise, or gift certificates
• Charitable Gifts: A donation to the diver’s favorite charity
• Integrated Programs: A mix of different awards, selectable by individual drivers

Consider conducting a survey to find out what types of rewards your drivers would like to receive for excellence in safety.

Sometimes the Rewards Aren’t the Problem

If your safe-driver rewards program isn’t successful, the problem may not the incentives offered. If employees don’t feel the program is fairly evaluated and executed, they won’t be motivated to participate. And, of course, a rewards program is only part of the answer needed to ensure driver safety. Ongoing driver training programs and driver monitoring are also necessary.

Creating a Successful Rewards Program

In order for a driver safety rewards program to be successful, companies must find a fair way of evaluating individual drivers. This usually means quantifying safety results through some type of points system. When that initial step has been completed, companies can create a rewards program that will motivate all, or at least most, of their drivers.
Companies also need to create an ongoing online training program that will help employees understand company expectations concerning safety and courtesy while driving. If you want to learn more click here to ask us about your driver monitoring, training, and safety program needs.