5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Truck Driver

Finding the right truck drivers for your company can be a daunting prospect, especially if you are hiring for the first time. Great drivers are efficient, time-conscious, disciplined, and productive. They help streamline your workflow and promote productivity. However, with high turnover rates and driver shortages across the globe, finding good drivers for your transportation company can be met with challenges. As a result, you might end up making costly mistakes that can harm productivity. This post will help you learn how to hire truck drivers and the five mistakes to avoid during the hiring process.

Neglecting Your Online Reputation

In this digital era, everything is done online. The truck drivers you’re looking to hire are also online. Employee reviews can put your company in the spotlight, which can positively or negatively impact your company. Once in a while, Google your company and check what people are saying about you. Some reviews can pinpoint areas in your company that need improvement, while others appreciate the excellent work. When you focus on reviews and your overall online reputation, truck drivers looking for a job may consider applying for positions at your company.

Hiring from the Wrong Places

While it’s always a great idea to consider recommendations from family and friends, avoid hiring people simply because they are friends or close relatives to your friends. If you do, make sure they go through the same vetting process that other potential employees undergo. Hiring on job boards and social media platforms is the most effective way of finding the right candidates for your business. Remember, technology is quickly catching up with the automotive and transport industry. Hire a diverse and flexible workforce who are up to date with recent technology as they can help your company flourish in a changing environment.

Not Creating an Accurate Job Description

If you are hiring from a job board, make sure that your job description is accurate. Check whether there are any missing details, vague statements, or incorrect details. Be open with your applications and let your drivers know what to expect when they apply. Make sure that your application includes what you offer, the skills required, and the job responsibilities. Serious candidates are always looking for detailed job descriptions and take their time to review the details before any application attempts. If they have any unanswered questions, you will probably skip the application.

Not Calling Applicants

When a candidate applies for any position in your company, it’s your responsibility to follow up with the strong prospects in a timely fashion. Call the interested candidate one or two days after their application and schedule an interview. If you take too long, you’re likely to find that another company hired them. Personalize every interaction with candidates and help them feel welcomed and appreciated for applying for the respective positions.

Not Training Your Drivers

Your hiring process isn’t complete without a thorough orientation and training. Even if you feel your candidate is experienced, never skip the training process. Let them know how to do things and solve specific challenges. Learn what makes each driver unique and use their best skills and talents to turn them into valued drivers.