Studies have shown that professional drivers are usually exposed to environmental stressors and adverse work conditions. Work-related stress will result in unhappy drivers and negative job performances. Some of the stressors are just the nature of the job, but that doesn’t mean that operations can’t take every action they can to reduce burnout and improve satisfaction and overall retention and performance in their drivers.

Provide Incentives

Some drivers go above and beyond but rarely receive recognition. Offer incentives such as bonuses or an extended home time once in a while if possible. Offering incentives is a great way to keep your drivers around and motivated.

Offer Competitive Pay Per Mile

The pay per mile is very important to truckers. If your pay per mile is not up to par, then drivers are not likely to make a career out of the job. It is industry commonplace for drivers to resign because the pay per mile is better at a different company.

Utilize Safe and Updated Equipment 

Nobody wants to drive for a company with an outdated fleet that is always breaking down. If drivers are expected to fix equipment on a repetitive basis they will likely become unhappy. Safety regulators will also give hefty fines if you’re getting reported.

Implement Proper Training Programs

No one wants to make calls all day, because something wasn’t explained or taught properly. Having a solid training program that effectively teaches how to successfully perform the job will save the confusion, and make long trips less of a headache.

Prioritize Good Management 

Never hire a manager that brags about running people off. There are managers that think that firing for not doing the job right all the time is a good thing. Good managers help people grow, not leave them in the dust. 

It takes the right touch of hands-on and hands-off to make a good manager. Micromanagers are very common, but drivers are not looking to have their hands held and will leave over it. 

Get Them Home Often 

There is a huge driver shortage in the industry causing people to be overworked and frustrated. If you can remedy this situation with more home time than your competitors your drivers will be loyal.

Drivers often have families that they want to come home to, so give them adequate time to do so. You will reduce the chances of burnout, and increase your chances of retaining them. 

Address Driver Health

Pushing for wellness is a great way to keep drivers happy on the road, and makes them want to stay. A wellness program can certainly help retain drivers. It does not have to be extravagant or full of rules. Even as simple as providing information such as healthy habits and foods when out on the road will increase wellness.

By its nature, trucking is a hazardous profession. Local trucking insurance is vital for businesses in this industry.  For more information, contact us today.

About Tobico Trucking Insurance

Trucking insurance is one of the most difficult types of insurance to obtain, but it doesn’t have to be. At Tobico Trucking Insurance, we are experienced and knowledgable about the trucking insurance market and the needs of trucking operations of all types and sizes. You need an agent who has the specialized knowledge of this ever-changing industry, and we have the products and the dedicated customer service to provide you with what you need. For more information, contact us any time of day at (469) 731-0707 to find out how we can help you.