Forklift in trucking yard, connote, transport.

Truck Driver Shortages and New Staff.

Benjamin Sleep - Jul 18, 2023

Truck Driver Shortages and New Staff.


With the truck driver shortages continuing to pain the transport industry, as we work with so many in the transport field with our ConNote software we put together a few ideas to help get drivers into your transport company.


Diversify


The trucking industry has traditionally been a male-dominated field, but in recent years, the demand for truck drivers has been increasing rapidly. With a shortage of qualified drivers, it can be tough for transport companies to keep up with the competition and to find the talent they need to succeed in the industry. Being open to women truck drivers and various age groups can really open the pool to more truck driver employments. 


Provide Training and Development Opportunities

Many new drivers are interested in growing their skills and advancing their careers. Providing opportunities for training and development can attract them to your business. Offering mentorship programs, tuition reimbursement, and other training programs can show that you're invested in your drivers' success. Offering to pay for the training and dropping your details to local truck driving training centres can open the door to more drivers. 
 Emphasise Work-Life Balance

Truck driving can be a demanding job that requires long hours on the road. Emphasising work-life balance by offering flexible schedules, time off, and other perks can attract drivers who value their personal life as much as their career.


Use Social Media to Your Advantage

Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are powerful tools for reaching potential drivers. By sharing job postings, company news, employee testimonials, and other content on social media, you can attract new candidates who are interested in your company culture and values. 
 Build a Positive Company Culture

Truck drivers want to work for companies that value their contributions and treat them with respect. Building a positive company culture by fostering teamwork, recognising accomplishments, and creating a supportive work environment can go a long way in attracting new talent.

Offer Sign-On Bonuses

Sign-on bonuses can be an effective way to attract new drivers. Offering a cash bonus or other incentives for new hires can incentivise them to choose your company over others.


Provide State-of-the-Art Equipment

Drivers want to work with the best equipment available. Providing state-of-the-art trucks, trailers, and other equipment can make your business more attractive to potential hires. Providing Software to make there paper work load low and keep drivers stress free. Word gets around happy drivers will sell your company for you. 


Offer Referral Programs

Referral programs can be a great way to attract new drivers through word of mouth. Offering rewards or bonuses to current employees who refer new drivers can help you find qualified candidates who are already trusted by your team.


Attend Job Fairs and Industry Events

Job fairs and industry events can be a great way to connect with potential drivers. Attending these events and promoting your company can help you build relationships with qualified candidates and showcase your company's strengths.


Provide Clear Career Paths

Truck drivers want to know that they have opportunities for growth and advancement. Providing clear career paths that outline the steps and requirements for advancement can attract new drivers who are interested in building a long-term career with your company.

Offer Competitive Pay and Benefits

One of the most important factors for truck drivers is their pay and benefits. Offering competitive salaries, bonuses, health insurance, retirement plans, and other benefits can make your transport company stand out from the rest.



Conclusion



Attracting new truck drivers is not easy, but by offering competitive pay and benefits, providing training and development opportunities, emphasising work-life balance, using social media to your advantage, building a positive company culture, offering sign-on bonuses, providing state-of-the-art equipment, offering referral programs, attending job fairs and industry events, and providing clear career paths, you can make your transport company stand out from the competition and attract the talent you need to succeed in the industry.