6 Traits of a Great Truck Driver
Professionals in all industries know that there’s a certain skill set needed to succeed in their respective occupation. Even though some skills come with natural talent, many can be learned and embraced to improve your overall performance – and that includes supply chain management employees as well. Truckers driving for a logistics provider must uphold a reliable and efficient work ethic in order to accomplish the goals of all parties involved. Here’s what today’s drivers are doing to excel in the logistics industry, and how you can adopt those traits to be the best truck driver on the road.
Talent will propel your performance throughout your truck driving career, as well as building upon your existing skills. The following qualities and characteristics are traits of what makes a great truck driver.
Reliability sits at the top of the totem pole while analyzing the traits of a great truck driver. This characteristic is easily dissectible due to its simplicity. In short, as long as the driver gets the job done well in a timely manner and does what is required of them, they can be in the center of providing a seamless solution to transport challenges.
A clean driving record will provide employers and prospective clients with confidence that freight will be successfully delivered without obstruction. Companies want to provide the utmost trust in their drivers and a great record gives a great sense of relief and no need for constant check-ups. Truckers with clean driving shows employers that the individual upholds professionalism, poise and reliability. Driving records without any past hiccups will also be cheaper to insure, making this respective driver an optimal choice.
A truck driver’s domain exists out on the open road, and constant alertness is needed at all times. This means that eyes should be on the road and measures should be taken to avoid dozing off. This road awareness entails being respectful to other drivers, anticipating their actions, using turn signals, avoiding road rage, abiding by the speed limit, having preparedness for the possibilities for events on the road and acknowledging problematic signs of their vehicle.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is another major positive for a truck driver. Eating healthy and avoiding bad habits that can cause negative side effects, or even sleepiness, are of great importance. These habits will directly play into a driver’s reliability and ability to perform. Being healthy means a long, successful life and career. Try to drink more water, exercise, avoid added sugars and steer clear of quick junk food snacks.
This skillset encompasses an individual’s people skills and how well a driver can communicate with others. These customer service traits are needed to maintain positive client relationships. This face-to-face interaction is an extension of your businesses reputation. Conducting good conversation, fairness and politeness will raise client satisfaction and build a lasting relationship. Be a courteous business ambassador and be cordial with everyone who you come into contact with.
A truck driver’s mechanical knowledge will come as one of the largest perks within their repertoire. Hosting a stock of skills that could assist in repairing and maintenance the equipment being operated is of vital importance. This will influence the efficiency of the vehicle’s performance while promoting safety of the driver and the others on the road.
It’s only human nature to crave the experience of success. No matter where you find yourself doing great work, all professions have industry-specific traits that will increase individual performance for the better. Following the tips listed above will help you understand what it takes to be a great truck driver and build on your existing talents. With goals of maintaining our status as the ultimate 3PL fulfillment service, National Retail Systems, Inc. is always searching for more great drivers to join our dedicated fleet. If interested in joining us, view our driver job postings and contact us at 1-800-753-0605 for more information. We’d love to hear from you and have you join our asset based 3PL team to service the world’s largest retailers. Build a rewarding career with National Retail Systems, In
National Retail Systems, Inc. (NRS) includes Keystone Freight Corp. & National Retail Transportation, Inc. (NRT). NRS is an asset based 3PL that has been providing logistics services for the World’s leading retail companies for 60+ years. Our hub locations include: New York & New Jersey; Los Angeles, CA; Inland Empire, CA; Savannah, GA; Columbus, OH; Greensboro, NC; and Baltimore, MD.
Find what you're looking for quickly and easily. Type in a keyword or phrase and hit enter to see relevant results.